Final answer:
Cocaine and methamphetamine are considered highly effective reinforcers due to their impact on dopamine neurotransmission, leading to pleasurable 'highs' and addictive properties. Meth is more potent than amphetamine, and cocaine is known for its psychological addiction potential.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stimulants increase levels of neural activity, particularly through the dopamine neurotransmitter system, which affects reward and craving. Cocaine, for example, acts as a stimulant by preventing the reuptake of dopamine, leaving higher levels in the synapse to stimulate the pleasure centers of the brain, resulting in the drug's high and addictive properties.
Methamphetamine, often referred to as meth, is a potent form of amphetamine and is known for being a highly accessible and inexpensive stimulant. It provides a euphoric high and feelings of intense pleasure, particularly when injected or smoked, leading to compulsive use. Despite this, methamphetamine is actually more potent than amphetamine, which contradicts one of the statements. While cocaine and methamphetamine have significant abuse potential, they do not produce the same physical and behavioral effects as heroin, and cocaine, in particular, is known for its strong potential for addiction, not being the least addictive of psychostimulant drugs. Lastly, cocaine abuse leads to psychological more than physical dependence.