U3 Nervous system: Reflexes

Question 1

Define reflex

Answer 1

A rapid, involuntary response to a change in the internal or external environment

Question 2

What are the properties of reflexes?

Answer 2

• A stimulus is required to trigger a reflex
• A reflex response is stereotypical (occurs in the same way each time it happens)
• A reflex response is rapid
• Reflexes are involuntary
• Reflexes are protective

Question 3

Define spinal reflex

Answer 3

A reflex carried out by the spinal cord without involvement of the brain

Question 4

Define spinal reflex arc

Answer 4

The pathway travelled by a nerve impulse from receptor to effector in the spinal cord