Question

1. how do neurons communicate? please describe the process of communication using the following terms: sending neuron, receiving neuron, axon terminals, dendrites, vesicles, neurotransmitters, synaptic gap, and receptor sites. if you would like to draw a diagram, then use the back of page 3.

1. please label the four lobes shown below. also, state the major area located in that lobe (e.g., primary visual cortex). finally, describe the major function(s) associated with that area (e.g., visual processing).

a. _______ lobe; area: _____________ cortex; function: ______________________

b. _______ lobe; area: _____________ cortex; function: ______________________

c. _______ lobe; area: _____________ cortex; function: ______________________

d. _______ lobe; area: _____________ cortex; function: ______________________

Explanation:

For Question 3:

Neuron communication occurs via synaptic transmission. First, an action potential reaches the axon terminals of the sending neuron, triggering vesicles to release neurotransmitters into the synaptic gap. These molecules then bind to receptor sites on the dendrites of the receiving neuron, passing the signal.

For Question 4:

Each brain lobe has a key cortical area and function, matched to the labeled diagram:

• A (purple, rear top): Occipital lobe, home to the primary visual cortex for visual processing.
• B (yellow, top middle): Parietal lobe, with the primary somatosensory cortex for processing touch and body position.
• C (blue, front side): Temporal lobe, containing the primary auditory cortex for sound processing and language comprehension.
• D (orange, front): Frontal lobe, housing the primary motor cortex for voluntary muscle movement and executive functions.

Answer:

Question 3:

1. An electrical signal (action potential) travels down the sending neuron to its axon terminals.
2. The signal triggers vesicles in the axon terminals to release neurotransmitters into the synaptic gap.
3. Neurotransmitters diffuse across the synaptic gap and bind to receptor sites on the dendrites of the receiving neuron.
4. This binding either excites or inhibits the receiving neuron, passing the signal forward.

Question 4:

A. Occipital lobe; Area: Primary visual cortex; Function: Processing visual information from the eyes
B. Parietal lobe; Area: Primary somatosensory cortex; Function: Processing touch, temperature, and body position sensations
C. Temporal lobe; Area: Primary auditory cortex; Function: Processing sound and supporting language comprehension
D. Frontal lobe; Area: Primary motor cortex; Function: Controlling voluntary muscle movements and executive functions (decision-making, planning)