Nervous System and Homeostasis Flashcards
What is the function of the nervous system?
enables organisms to react to their surroundings and coordinates behaviour
What are the two parts of the central nervous system?
brain and spinal cord
Why are reflex actions described as rapid and automatic?
they do not involve the conscious part of the brain
Why are reflex actions important?
for survival and to prevent damage to the body
Give the pathway of a nervous response
stimulus -> receptor -> coordination centre -> effector -> response
What is a synapse?
gap between two neurones
What is the function of neurones?
carry electrical impulses around the body
What is homeostasis?
maintaining a constant internal environment
Give three internal conditions controlled in homeostasis
body temperature, blood glucose concentration and water levels
Where is body temperature monitored and controlled?
thermoregulatory centre in the brain
What happens if body temperature is too high?
blood vessels dilate and sweat is produced
What happens if body temperature is too low?
blood vessels constrict, sweating stops and shivering takes place
