Chapter 23.2 Quiz Flashcards
(28 cards)
What is Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)?
A clear, colorless fluid found in the brain and spinal cord that cushions the brain, removes waste, and delivers nutrients.
CSF plays a critical role in protecting the brain and maintaining its environment.
Define Gyri.
The ridges or raised portions on the surface of the brain, which increase surface area for neural processing.
Gyri are essential for enhancing the brain’s capacity for information processing.
What are Meninges?
Three protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.
The three layers of meninges are crucial for protecting the central nervous system.
What are Sulci?
Shallow grooves or furrows on the brain’s surface between gyri.
Sulci help to increase the surface area of the brain, allowing for more neurons.
Name the outermost layer of the Meningeal Layers.
Dura Mater.
The Dura Mater is the toughest layer and provides the first line of defense for the brain.
What is the Arachnoid Mater?
The web-like middle layer of the meninges.
This layer is named for its spider web-like appearance.
What is the Pia Mater?
The thin, inner layer directly covering the brain and spinal cord.
The Pia Mater is delicate and contains blood vessels that supply nutrients to the brain.
List the three structures of the brainstem.
- Midbrain
- Pons
- Medulla Oblongata
Each structure plays a vital role in controlling various autonomic functions and connecting different parts of the brain.
What is the function of the Midbrain?
Controls vision, hearing, motor control.
The Midbrain is involved in reflexive responses to visual and auditory stimuli.
What does the Pons do?
Connects upper and lower brain and helps regulate breathing.
The Pons serves as a communication bridge between different parts of the brain.
What is the role of the Medulla Oblongata?
Controls autonomic functions like heart rate and breathing.
The Medulla Oblongata is essential for survival as it regulates vital involuntary functions.
What does the Cerebellum coordinate?
Voluntary movements, posture, balance, and motor learning.
The Cerebellum is crucial for fine motor skills and maintaining equilibrium.
What functions are associated with the Frontal Lobe?
Decision-making, problem-solving, voluntary movement, and personality.
The Frontal Lobe is often referred to as the control panel of our personality and ability to communicate.
What is regulated by the Hypothalamus?
Homeostasis (body temperature, hunger, thirst) and controls the pituitary gland.
The Hypothalamus is a critical component in maintaining the body’s internal balance.
What is the primary function of the Occipital Lobe?
Processes visual information.
The Occipital Lobe is located at the back of the brain and is essential for vision.
What does the Parietal Lobe process?
Sensory input like touch, temperature, and pain.
The Parietal Lobe integrates sensory information from various modalities.
What is the function of the Temporal Lobe?
Involved in hearing, memory, and language comprehension.
The Temporal Lobe plays a key role in processing auditory information and forming memories.
What is the Thalamus known for?
Relay station for sensory information going to the cerebral cortex.
The Thalamus acts as a hub for sensory signals before they reach the appropriate areas of the brain.
What does the Somatic Nervous System (SNS) control?
Voluntary muscle movements and transmits sensory information.
The SNS is responsible for conscious control of skeletal muscles.
What is the function of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)?
Regulates involuntary body functions like heartbeat and digestion.
The ANS operates automatically, without conscious control.
What is the Sympathetic Division known for?
“Fight or flight” response – increases heart rate, dilates pupils, inhibits digestion.
The Sympathetic Division prepares the body for stressful situations.
What does the Parasympathetic Division do?
“Rest and digest” – slows heart rate, stimulates digestion, conserves energy.
The Parasympathetic Division promotes maintenance activities and conserves energy.
What is the Enteric Division responsible for?
Manages the function of the gastrointestinal system; often works independently of the CNS.
The Enteric Division is sometimes referred to as the ‘second brain’ due to its complex network.
How many pairs of cervical spinal nerves are there?
8 pairs (C1–C8).
Cervical nerves control functions in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands.
