Exam 2: The Biological Basis of Behavior

Jessica's mother has blue eyes, with two recessive genes for blue eyes. Her father has brown eyes, with a dominant gene for brown eyes and a recessive gene for blue eyes. What are the chances that Jessica has blue eyes?

The cerebellum is sometimes referred to as ________.

The main ingredient of genes and chromosomes is deoxyribonucleic acid.

A group of axons bundled together is called a ________.

Describe the functions of the spinal cord and explain how it works with the brain to sense events and act on them.

After drinking several cups of strong coffee, a person develops "coffee nerves" or "jitters." This probably is due to the ability of caffeine to ________.

Genes can directly cause human behavior.

Fraternal twins are ________ similar genetically than are other brothers and sisters.

Males are ________ likely than females to be left-handed.

The system which coordinates and integrates behavior by secreting chemicals into the bloodstream is called the ________ system.

Define neuron, axon, dendrite, cell body, and myelin sheath. In your definitions, be sure to describe the specific functions of each item.

The hormone melatonin is produced by the ________ gland.

Terminal buttons release chemicals called ________.

A neuron is likely to fire ________ when stimulated by a strong signal.

Undifferentiated precursor cells that, under the right conditions, can give rise to any specialized cell in the body are called ________ cells.

Phineas Gage suffered personality changes as a result of damage to his temporal lobes.

Sandra is straightening her hair, and accidently touches the hot plate of the straightener. Her hand automatically opens to release the straightener. Sandra's reaction is due to the functioning of the ________.

The area of the frontal lobe that is crucial in our ability to talk is ________ area.

Macroelectrode techniques are used to ________.

The two hormones secreted by the pancreas are insulin and glucagon.