The structure and functions of the nervous system

Question 1

What is the role of the Central nervous system?

Answer 1

integrates information received from peripheral nerves and coordinates bodily responses. It is made up of the brain and the spinal cord

Question 2

What is the role of the peripheral nervous system?

Answer 2

• made up of the sensory and motor systems, it sends information to the CNS via sensory neurone and activates effectors via motor neurons

Question 3

What is the role of the autonomic nervous system?

Answer 3

• the ‘involuntary’ system, which regulates the functions of our internal organs
• it regulates involuntary responses

Question 4

What is the role of the somatic nervous system?

Answer 4

• the ‘voluntary’ system, which connects the brain to motor neurone such as those found in the skeletal muscles
• we are in control of this system and we use it when we want. to make our muscles move

Question 5

What is the role of the sympathetic nervous system?

Answer 5

prepares body for intense physical activity and is often referred to as the ‘fight or flight’ response. It increases heart rate, breathing, pupil dilation etc

Question 6

What is the role of the parasympathetic nervous system?

Answer 6

relaxes the body and inhibits or slows many high energy functions. slows the breathing rate, constricts pupils, slows heart rate etc.
Controls homeostasis and the body at rest, it is responsible for the body’s ‘rest and digest’ function