Learning Objectives

2.1.1 Explain where neurons fit in with the other types of cells in the body.
2.1.2 Explain the cell theory and the neuron doctrine.
2.1.3 Describe the methods used to study neurons.
2.1.4 Explain what scientists have learned from having accurate estimates of the numbers of neurons in the brains of humans and other animals.
2.2.1 Describe the prototypical neuron and explain the roles of its parts.
2.2.2 Describe the ways by which neurons can be differentiated.
2.3.1 Explain the forces of diffusion and electrostatic pressure and how they are involved in the movement of ions across the cell membrane.
2.3.2 Explain how action potentials are initiated.
2.3.3 Explain how action potentials are propagated down the axons of neurons.
2.4.1 Describe the initial discovery of glia and the role initially assigned to them.
2.4.2 Explain the functions of the different types of glia.