9781422280386

Words to Understand

axons: thin fibers that extend from the cell bodies of neurons to carry messages. cerebellum: the back part of the brain; it controls movement. cerebrum: the front part of the brain; it controls many higher- level thinking functions. dendrite: branch-like extension of a neuron that receives signals from other cells. depolarize: to reduce or remove a magnetic charge. electrochemical: interactions between molecules involving their electrical and chemical properties. ganglia: plural of ganglion; a cluster of nerve cells and part of the peripheral nervous system. ion: an atom or molecule that has lost or gained electrons, giving it a negative or positive charge. millivolt: a measure of electric current equaling one thousandth of a volt. nerves: bundles of axons that communicate with cells all around the body. neurons: special cells in the nervous system designed to transmit messages. neurotransmitters: chemicals used by neurons to communicate. synapse: a tiny gap across which neurons communicate using neurotransmitters. vesicles: tiny blisters or sacs filled with fluid.

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