Nervous systems Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is the nervous system?
The nervous system is a complex network that facilitates communication between the brain and the rest of the body.
What are the two main parts of the nervous system?
The two main parts are the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).
What does the Central Nervous System (CNS) consist of?
The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord.
What are the functions of the Central Nervous System (CNS)?
The CNS acts as the central processing unit for the body, receiving information, processing it, and sending out instructions for responses.
What does the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) comprise?
The PNS comprises nerves distributed throughout the body.
What are the functions of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)?
The PNS connects the CNS to limbs and organs, carrying sensory information to the brain and transmitting motor commands from the brain to muscles and glands.
What is homeostasis?
Homeostasis is the maintenance of a constant internal environment.
What conditions are included in homeostasis?
Conditions include water regulation, temperature regulation, and gas concentrations.
What are stimuli?
Stimuli are environmental changes that can be detected by receptor cells.
What are examples of stimuli?
Examples include temperature, chemicals (e.g., CO2, O2), and blood pressure.
What are receptors?
Receptors are specialized cells capable of detecting stimuli and transmitting information to the CNS.
What are examples of receptors?
Examples include temperature receptors, chemoreceptors for detecting chemicals, and baroreceptors for blood pressure detection.
What is the function of the Medulla Oblongata?
The Medulla Oblongata controls vital processes such as breathing rate, blood pressure, and heart rate through feedback loops.
What is an example process involving the Medulla Oblongata?
Stimulus: Increase in CO2 levels. Receptor: Chemoreceptors in the brain. Modulator: Medulla oblongata. Effector: Lungs Response: increases contraction rate to boost blood flow
What is the function of the Hypothalamus?
The Hypothalamus regulates the endocrine system, mediates ‘fight or flight’ responses, and controls body temperature.
What is an example process involving the Hypothalamus?
Stimulus: Decrease in body temperature. Receptor: Temperature receptors. Modulator: Hypothalamus. Effector: Blood vessels near the skin Response: Vasoconstriction in
blood vessels
decrease blood flow to
the skin / Reduce heat
loss from skin
What is the Afferent Division of the PNS?
The Afferent Division transmits sensory information from receptors to the CNS.
What is the Efferent Division of the PNS?
The Efferent Division sends commands from the CNS to muscles and glands, facilitating motor responses.
What are the differences between CNS and PNS?
CNS: Brain and spinal cord; processes information and controls functions; protected by skull and vertebral column. PNS: Nerves outside the brain and spinal cord; connects CNS to limbs and organs; protected by connective tissue.
What are reflex arcs?
Reflex arcs are pathways that mediate responses to stimuli without requiring brain involvement, enabling rapid reactions.
What is the function of the Spinal Withdrawal Reflex?
The Spinal Withdrawal Reflex protects the body from harm by instituting quick, involuntary movements.
What are the components of a reflex arc?
Components include receptors, sensory (afferent) neurons, motor (efferent) neurons, and effectors.
What is an example scenario for a reflex arc?
Scenario: Your Finger is Cut by a Knife. Stimulus: Cut by the knife. Receptor: Pain receptors in the skin. Afferent Pathway: Sensory neuron transmits the pain signal to the spinal cord. The spinal cord: processes the information. Effector: Motor neuron conveys the response command. Response: Muscle contracts to pull the finger away from the knife.
What is the conclusion about the nervous system?
The nervous system and the processes of homeostasis are fundamental to maintaining stability and ensuring survival.
