The Divisions Of The Nervous System

Question 1

What is the nervous system and what is the function?

Answer 1

• nervous system is a network of cells in the human body, the bodys internal communication system
• its function is to collect, process and response to info from the env and to control organs and cells in the body
• divided into the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS)

Question 2

What is the central nervous system subdivided into?

Answer 2

Brain and spinal cord

Question 3

Describe the function of the brain

Answer 3

• receives and processes info from the senses e.g. visual cortex processes visual info
• centre of conscious awareness
• responsible for higher mental functions, emotions and thoughts
• initiates responses and store memories

Question 4

Describe the function of the spinal cord

Answer 4

• conducts signals to and from the brain
• connects nerves to the PNS
• controls reflex actions e.g. removing hand when touching hot pan

Question 5

What is the peripheral nervous systems function and what is it subdivided into?

Answer 5

• sends messages to and from the CNS via neurons
• subdivided into the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and somatic nervous system (SNS)

Question 6

Describe the function of the autonomic nervous system

Answer 6

• responsible for involuntary responses for vital functions e.g. breathing
• controls smooth and cardiac muscle and glands
• ANS control centres in brain stem
• further subdivided into sympathetic branch responsible for fight or flight response and parasympathetic branch which conserves and stores body energy when relaxed

Question 7

Describe the function of the somatic nervous system

Answer 7

• responsible for voluntary movements e.g. walking
• transmits info from brain to control skeletal muscles
• SNS is controlled by motor cortex
• connects CNS and senses to integrate brain w outside world