Neural Messages
Psychology Computer Lab
PsychSim
Name ________________
Section_______________
Date _________________
Neural Messages
1. Identify the 3 types of neurons and describe their functions.
2. In the space below, draw a basic diagram of a neuron. Include the soma,
dendrites, axon, and axon terminals.
3. Describe the functions of the soma, dendrites, axon, and axon
terminals.
4. What does it mean when we say the axon is selectively permeable?
5. During the axon’s resting state, or resting potential, ______________
(anions/cations) predominate inside the axon, giving the axon a
___________________ (positive/negative) charge.
Neural Messages
6. What does it mean when we say that a neuron is polarized in its resting
state?
7. Describe the movement of sodium and potassium ions during axonal
conduction. Be sure to include these three phases: resting potential,
depolarization, and repolarization.
8. What is a synapse?
9. In the space below, draw a basic diagram of a synapse. Include the axon
terminals, synaptic vesicles, neurotransmitters, the synaptic cleft,
and receptor sites.
Neural Messages
10. What is the difference between an excitatory synapse and an inhibitory
synapse?
11. How does the neuron decide whether or not to fire?