Nervous System

Question 1

What are the two main parts of the nervous system?

Answer 1

1. Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord.
2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Nerves outside the CNS, including somatic and autonomic systems.

Question 2

What is the function of the CNS?

Answer 2

The CNS processes and interprets sensory information and coordinates responses.

Question 3

What is the role of sensory and motor neurons?

Answer 3

• Sensory neurons: Carry signals from sensory organs to the CNS.
• Motor neurons: Carry signals from the CNS to muscles or glands.

Question 4

How does the autonomic nervous system (ANS) function?

Answer 4

The ANS controls involuntary actions like heart rate and digestion. It has two branches:
• Sympathetic: “Fight or flight” response.
• Parasympathetic: “Rest and digest” response.

Question 5

What is a synapse, and how does it work?

Answer 5

A synapse is the gap between neurons where neurotransmitters carry signals from one neuron to another.

Question 6

What is multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer 6

An autoimmune disorder where the immune system damages the myelin sheath of neurons, impairing nerve signal transmission.

Question 7

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Answer 7

A neurodegenerative disorder caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons, leading to tremors, stiffness, and movement issues.

Question 8

What is the role of the reflex arc?

Answer 8

The reflex arc is a neural pathway enabling immediate responses to stimuli without involving the brain.