Biopsychology - The Nervous System Flashcards
What is the Nervous System
Specialised network of cells in the human body
primary internal communication system
What is the NS based on/ how does it communicate
electrical and chemical signals
State the two main functions of the NS
- collect , process and responds to info in the
environment - coordinate the workings of different organs and cells in the body
What are the two systems the nervous system is divided into
Central Nervous System
Peripheral Nervous System
What is the CNS made up of
brain
spinal cord
What is the brain described as
centre of all conscious awareness
What is the outer layer of the brain called
cereberal cortex
Describe the cerebal cortex
outer layer of the brain
covers brain like an orange peel does to an orange
3mm thick
The cerebal cortex is only found in ?
mammals
the brain is ‘…… developed’ in humans and so it ?
highly developed
distinguishes us and our higher mental functions from animals
How many hemispheres is the brain divided into
2
The spinal cord is an ‘…’ of the brain
extension
What does the spinal cord do and is responsible for
pass messages to and from the brain #
connects nerves to the PNS
repsonsible for reflex actions - e.g pulling hand away from a hot plate
What does the Peripheral Nervous System do ?
sends information from outside world to CNS
and
transmits messages from CNS to muscles and glands in the body
What is the PNS divided into
autonomic nervous system
somatic nervous system
