Sciences (2026) Q&A | Galen College
1. The central nervous system consists of the:
A) Brain and cranial nerves
B) Brain and spinal cord
C) Spinal cord and peripheral nerves
D) Cranial nerves and spinal nerves
Correct Answer: Brain and spinal cord
Rationale: The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, which process and
integrate information. The peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of nerves
extending from the CNS to the rest of the body. Cranial and spinal nerves are
PNS components.
2. The part of a neuron that receives signals from other neurons is the:
A) Axon
B) Dendrite
C) Cell body
D) Myelin sheath
Correct Answer: Dendrite
Rationale: Dendrites are branched extensions that receive chemical signals and
convert them into electrical impulses toward the cell body. The axon transmits
signals away from the cell body; the myelin sheath insulates the axon.
,3. The primary function of the myelin sheath is to:
A) Produce neurotransmitters
B) Increase the speed of nerve impulse conduction
C) Receive incoming signals
D) Store calcium ions
Correct Answer: Increase the speed of nerve impulse conduction
Rationale: Myelin, produced by oligodendrocytes (CNS) and Schwann cells
(PNS), insulates axons and allows saltatory conduction, greatly increasing
transmission speed. It does not produce neurotransmitters or receive signals.
4. The autonomic nervous system is a subdivision of the:
A) Central nervous system
B) Somatic nervous system
C) Peripheral nervous system
D) Sensory division only
Correct Answer: Peripheral nervous system
Rationale: The PNS has sensory and motor divisions. The motor division includes
the somatic (voluntary) and autonomic (involuntary) systems. The CNS consists
of the brain and spinal cord.
5. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for:
, A) Rest and digest functions
B) Voluntary muscle movement
C) Fight or flight responses
D) Sensory input from skin
Correct Answer: Fight or flight responses
Rationale: The sympathetic division prepares the body for stressful situations:
increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, and redirecting blood flow to muscles. The
parasympathetic division promotes "rest and digest."
6. Which glial cells form the blood-brain barrier?
A) Microglia
B) Oligodendrocytes
C) Astrocytes
D) Schwann cells
Correct Answer: Astrocytes
Rationale: Astrocytes have foot processes that wrap around capillaries, forming
tight junctions that limit the passage of substances into the brain. Microglia are
immune cells; oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells produce myelin.
7. The resting membrane potential of a neuron is approximately:
A) +30 mV
B) 0 mV