1. Explain the function and process of a neuron’s refractory period.
The neuro’s refractory period is closely linked to physiological psychology.
... [Show More] Physiological psychology is said to be a subdivision of behavioral neuroscience. It the branch that of psychology that deals with the correlation between the physical operation of an organism and how the organism behaves. Physiological psychology pays close attention to the normal and pathological physiological process effects that it can have on a person’s mental life. Physiological psychology is when we examine the different problems and issues that come about. Many people like to refer to these issues and problems as “mind- body” problems. The refractory period refers to the period of time in which the cell isn’t able to repeat an action potential. The action potential is the amount of time that it takes for an excitable membrane to respond to another stimulus after being at its resting state of being (Brigham Young University - Idaho, 2019). This is the period that occurs after the action potential becomes impossible or it becomes more difficult for an action potential to be fired. This is usually caused by an inactivation of sodium channels and the initiation of more potassium networks of the membrane.
Even if another stimulus is given to a neuron, it will not give way to a second action potential. The refractory period consists of two subcategories. The first one is the absolute refractory period. The absolute refractory relates to repolarization and depolarization. It also corresponds with approximately the complete duration of action potential. During this phase, the neuron is unable to send the proper stimulation to a muscle or a nerve. The other period or subcategory is the relative refractory period. This refers to the period that is connected to the hyperpolarization. The relative refractory period comes directly after the absolute refractory period. If we didn’t have any neurons, it would be impossible for us to be able to feel anything (Spielman & et al., 2014).
2. Describe how the brain transports essential chemicals.
The human brain is one of the most amazing organs in the human body. It has the ability to regulate the different functions of the body. It also has the ability to interpret information that is received from the external world and represents the fundamental nature of the mind and soul. When essential chemicals of the brain are mentioned, it is typically referring to glucose, amino acids, ketone bodies, choline, purines, protein, lipids (fats), minerals and vitamins. The brain has several transport mechanisms. Any small or uncharged molecules such as oxygen and carbon dioxide are able to pass through freely without any hesitation. There are special protein channels that are located in the walls of the endothelial cells. They form what is called the blood-brain barrier (BBB). These cells are responsible for transporting the water that our body needs to survive. The main fuel for the brain is glucose. Amino acids, purines, choline, iron, and hormones can be actively transported into the brain. Active transport is a protein-mediated process that uses energy in order to pump out the different chemicals from the blood and helps it move into the brain (Pardridge, 1984, p. 246).
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