BACKGROUND: The purpose of this writing assignment is to assist students in learning the neurochemical events involved in the transmission of information throughout the Nervous System. This will be a basis for understanding many kinds of neurological disorders. It will also help students prepare for future tests. This assignment contributes a maximum of 25 points to the point total for the course. A scoring rubric will be posted for this assignment.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this writing assignment is to assist students in learning the neurochemical events involved in the transmission of information throughout the Nervous System. This will be a basis for understanding many kinds of neurological disorders. It will also help students prepare for future tests. This assignment contributes a maximum of 25 points to the point total for the course. A scoring rubric will be posted for this assignment. ASSIGNMENT: In 2-4 pages of double spaced, typewritten text respond to the following issues: 1) (6 points) Explain the concept of the “Action Potential” a. What is it and where does it occur b. What is the neurochemical basis for this event 2) (10 points) Describe the events that occur when an action potential reaches the end of one neuron and continues on to the next neuron. 3) (9 points) Explain the concept of neurotransmitter and give the following information: a. What is the difference between an inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitter? b. Explain the process of neurotransmitter reuptake c. Where are neurotransmitters synthesized in the neuron?