AP Psychology : Biology

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Psychology

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Example Questions

Example Question #141 : Biology

What neurotransmitter triggers muscle contractions?

Possible Answers:

Norepinephrine

Acetylcholine

Insulin

Serotonin

Dopamine

Correct answer:

Acetylcholine

Explanation:

Acetylcholine is located at the neuromuscular junction, and it triggers muscle contraction in the body's cells. This neurotransmitter is most frequently found in neuronal cells in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS).

Example Question #142 : Biology

Which of the following is a false statement about endorphins?

Possible Answers:

Endorphins are linked to pain centers in the body

Endorphins act similar to opiate drugs

Endorphins are linked to pleasure centers in the body

Endorphins are neurotransmitters

Endorphins are hormones

Correct answer:

Endorphins are hormones

Explanation:

Endorphins are a type of neurotransmitters that are closely linked to pleasure and pain centers in the body. They are not hormones; hormones are chemical messengers that are secreted directly into the blood and travel through the body to various organs.

Example Question #143 : Biology

After suffering a stroke localized to the cerebellum, one would exhibit which of the following symptoms ___________________.

Possible Answers:

inability to regulate heart rate

inability to comprehend speech

inability to form new memories

inability to produce articulate speech

inability to coordinate movements and loss of balance

Correct answer:

inability to coordinate movements and loss of balance

Explanation:

The cerebellum is located near the base of the brain. Its major function is to coordinate movement and preserve balance. Damage to this area from a stroke will prevent an individual from coordinating their movements.

Example Question #141 : Biology

What term describes the brain imaging modality that relies on magnetic fields and electrons?

Possible Answers:

EEG

EKG

MT Scan

MRI

CT Scan

Correct answer:

MRI

Explanation:

An MRI is a brain imaging modality that relies on magnetic fields. Strong magnets redirect the electrons within the body to produce an image. MRIs provide useful imaging of the soft tissue structures of the brain, and can be key in finding tumors, bleeding, and other brain abnormalities.

Example Question #142 : Biology

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by impulsive behavior and an inability to concentrate. Medications used to help with symptoms of ADHD are described as ____________________.

Possible Answers:

Antipsychotics

Anti-depressants

Glutamate analogs

Anxiolytics

Stimulants

Correct answer:

Stimulants

Explanation:

ADHD is a common disorder of childhood that manifests as inattentive behavior and impulsive behavior. Stimulants (such as Ritalin and amphetamines) are the first line treatment for ADHD. Stimulants increase concentration and alleviate symptoms of ADHD for many patients. They work by increasing concentrations of activating neurotransmitters.

Example Question #1 : Endocrine System

Leptin is a hormone released by fat cells that functions to __________.

Possible Answers:

create sensations of hunger

regulate appetite

decrease metabolism

create sensations of pain

increase metabolism

Correct answer:

regulate appetite

Explanation:

Also known as the "starvation hormone", leptin signals the hypothalamus that the body has enough fat stored to function normally. When leptin levels are high enough, appetite is inhibited. When leptin levels are low, it indicates that we need to consume more food and appetite increases.

Example Question #143 : Biology

Which hormone is most closesly associated with stress?

Possible Answers:

Insulin

Melatonin

Cortisol

Oxytocin

Testosterone

Correct answer:

Cortisol

Explanation:

Cortisol is released by the adrenal cortex, which is controlled by the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary. The hypothalamus releases corticotropin-releasing hormone, triggering the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the anterior pituitary gland. ACTH stimulates the release of cortisol. Cortisol is released when the body is under long-term stress, such as malnutrition, dehydration, or prolonged mental stress.

Example Question #3 : Endocrine System

Which neurohormone, secreted by the pineal gland, is involved with mood, anxiety, and sleep?

Possible Answers:

Norepinephrine

Dopamine

Endorphins

Serotonin

Acetylcholine

Correct answer:

Serotonin

Explanation:

The pineal gland secretes serotonin by day and converts it to melatonin at night. These chemicals affect mood, anxiety, and sleep. The pineal gland may also play a role in seasonal affective disorder, in which people are depressed during the darker days of winter. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of drug that work to elevate mood by blocking the cells that breakdown serotonin, leaving it in the synapses of the nervous system for a longer period of time.

Dopamine has a neuromuscular function, as an absence is associated with Parkinson's disease. Norepinephrine has a stimulatory effect. Acetylcholine stimulates muscle cells to contract. Endorphins are the body's natural pain relievers. 

Example Question #1443 : Ap Psychology

Which hormone is most closely associated with activating the "fight or flight" response?

Possible Answers:

Epinephrine

Melatonin

Norepinephrine

Estrogen

Testosterone

Correct answer:

Epinephrine

Explanation:

Epinephrine, also called adrenaline, is a hormone that activates the sympathetic nervous system. This triggers our "fight or flight" response, which increases heart rate, dilates the pupil, increases blood flow to skeletal muscle, and reduces digestive and reproductive activity.

Example Question #1444 : Ap Psychology

The pituitary gland can be described as _________.

Possible Answers:

The gland that regulates the flow of liquid out of the skull

A gland used to detoxify the body

A small, non-vital gland in the endocrine system

The part of the brainstem situated just above the spinal chord

The "master gland" of the endocrine system

Correct answer:

The "master gland" of the endocrine system

Explanation:

The pituitary gland is considered the "master gland" of the endocrine system. Hormones secreted from the pituitary gland help regulate growth, metabolism, and numerous other bodily functions and processes. The medulla oblongata is the part of the brainstem located just above the spinal chord. 

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