The Reticular Activating System of the Brainstem Is Continuously Active

Multiple Choice

The reticular activating system of the brainstem is continuously active while we are awake.Neurons in this region maintain the responsiveness of the brain by

A) reducing the number of action potentials fired by brainstem neurons.
B) decreasing the number of cycles of REM sleep.
C) hyperpolarizing cortical neurons.
D) firing action potentials in synchronized bursts.
E) releasing neurotransmitters that maintain the sensitivity of neurons in the thalamus and cortex.