3.1-3.3: The Nervous Systems Flashcards
The cellular building blocks of the brain
Neurons
The study of how nerves and cells send and receive information from the brain, body, and spinal cord
Neuroscience
The outermost layer of tissue in the brain; supports cognitive skills, complex emotions, and complex mental activity, including your sense of mind and self
Cerebral cortex
The basic physical and functional units of heredity; made up of DNA
Genes
A network of neurons running throughout your body and brain
Nervous system
Collections of neurons that carry signals from the body to the brain
Nerves
The major bundle of nerves, encased in your spine, that connects your body to your brain
Spinal cord
Neurons that carry information from the outside world and within the body to the brain
Sensory neurons
Neurons that send signals to make the body take action
Motor neurons
Neurons that connect neurons and interpret, store, and retrieve information about the world, allowing you to make informed decisions before you act
Interneurons
The system composed of the brain and spinal cord; information from your body travels to the brain by way of the nerves of your spinal cord
Central nervous system
The system composed of the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord; connects the parts of the body to the brain
Peripheral nervous system
The system in the PNS that largely carries voluntary commands such as conscious movements
Somatic nervous system
The system in the PNS that carries involuntary commands such as the heartbeat
Autonomic nervous system
A division of the autonomic nervous system that acts on blood vessels, organs, and glands in a way that prepares the body for action, especially in life threatening situations
Sympathetic nervous system
