AP Biology : Cellular Biology

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Biology

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Example Questions

Example Question #22 : Understanding Neural Cells

Which of the following is true regarding interneurons?

Possible Answers:

All of these

They create neural circuits

There are two types of interneurons: local and relay

They are a part of the central nervous system 

Correct answer:

All of these

Explanation:

Interneurons are a class of neuron that create neural circuits between sensory neurons, motor neurons, or the central nervous system. Interneurons are components of the central nervous system and can be further categorized into local and relay interneurons.

Example Question #541 : Cellular Biology

Which of the following is not true regarding Schwann cells?

Possible Answers:

Schwann cells allow for saltatory conduction in the neuron

They are a type of glial cell

Nodes of Ranvier are a type of specialized Schwann cell

Schwann cells form the myelin sheath

Correct answer:

Nodes of Ranvier are a type of specialized Schwann cell

Explanation:

Schwann cells are a type of glial cell that wrap around the axon to form the myelin sheath. This insulation allows for saltatory conduction, which increases the speed of signal transmission through the neuron. Gaps between Schwann cell myelination on the axon are called nodes of Ranvier.

Example Question #24 : Understanding Neural Cells

Which of the following distinguishes grey matter from white matter in the central nervous system?

Possible Answers:

Grey matter is chiefly located in the spinal cord

Only white matter is located in the brain 

Grey matter has fewer myelinated axons

White matter contains most of the cell bodies in the central nervous system

Correct answer:

Grey matter has fewer myelinated axons

Explanation:

Grey matter is a part of the central nervous system that contains most of the cell bodies in the system and few myelinated axons. Grey matter is located in both the brain and spinal cord. Among other things, it is involved in muscle control, sensory perception, emotions, and self-control.

Example Question #25 : Understanding Neural Cells

Which of the following represents the primary features of white matter in the central nervous system?

Possible Answers:

White matter is located in the deep parts of the brain and superficial spinal cord

All of these

It contains myelinated axons

The white color comes from the fatty myelin around the axons

Correct answer:

All of these

Explanation:

White matter is a component of the central nervous system that contains myelinated axons and is located in the deep parts of the brain and superficial spinal cord. The term “white” matter comes from the white color of the area due to the fatty myelin that surrounds the axons. White matter is involved in communication between the gray matter and other parts of the central nervous system.

Example Question #541 : Cellular Biology

Which of the following is not a part of the central nervous system (CNS)?

Possible Answers:

Spinal cord

All of these

Brain

White and grey matter

Correct answer:

All of these

Explanation:

The CNS includes the brain (including white matter and gray matter) and the spinal cord. The CNS coordinates and controls all activity within the body.

Example Question #102 : Types Of Cells And Tissues

Ganglia are a part of which of the following subunits of the nervous system?

Possible Answers:

Autonomic nervous system

All of these

Somatic nervous system

Central nervous system

Correct answer:

Autonomic nervous system

Explanation:

Ganglia are clusters of nerve cells that are a part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls the function of organs.

Example Question #103 : Types Of Cells And Tissues

Which of the following best describes the structure of the colloquial term “nerve”?

Possible Answers:

None of these

A neuron

Glycogen

A protein

Correct answer:

A neuron

Explanation:

The colloquial term “nerve” refers to a neuron—a nerve cell—that can transmit electrical signals throughout the human body. Nerves can be grouped into two categories: motor neurons and sensory neurons.

Example Question #101 : Types Of Cells And Tissues

Which of the following is not a tissue within the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?

Possible Answers:

Certain cranial nerves

Ganglia

Nerves

Spinal cord

Correct answer:

Spinal cord

Explanation:

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is the part of the nervous system that connects the central nervous system (CNS) with the rest of the human body. The PNS includes ganglia, nerves, and certain cranial nerves. The PNS does not include the brain and spinal cord, which are components of the CNS.

Example Question #102 : Types Of Cells And Tissues

Which of the following describes the role of connective tissues (endoneurium, perineurium, and epineurium) around neurons in the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?

Possible Answers:

Protection and support

Saltatory conduction

There is no connective tissue surrounding peripheral nervous system (PNS) neurons

Insulation from toxins

Correct answer:

Protection and support

Explanation:

Three layers of connective tissue surround peripheral nervous system (PNS) neurons: the endoneurium, perineurium, and epineurium. This connective tissue encloses the neurons and offers protection and support.

Example Question #103 : Types Of Cells And Tissues

Which of the following best describes what occurs immediately after neurotransmitters bind to receptors on post-synaptic neurons?

Possible Answers:

The membrane potential stabilizes

Neurotransmitters enter the cell via endocytosis

Depolarization occurs

Ion gated channels open

Correct answer:

Ion gated channels open

Explanation:

After neurotransmitters bind to the post-synaptic neuron, ion gated channels open. This allows for depolarization and the generation of another action potential.

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