qustions about reflexes Flashcards
(7 cards)
what is the purpose of a reflex
to provide a fast, automatic response to a stimulus
what is an innate reflex? Give examples?
a natural, automatic response to a stimulus that you are born with, not something you learn.
Examples: blinking, pulling your hand away from a hot object, + knee-jerk reflex when the doctor taps your patellar tendon
What is an acquired reflex?
is a learned response to a stimulus, developed through experience or repetition rather than being present at birth
Examples: braking when you see a red light and typing without looking at the keyboard
What is an autonomic reflex?
an involuntary response that controls the activity of internal organs, glands, and smooth muscles, helping maintain homeostasis in the body.
Examples: heart rate adjustment during exercise or rest + bladder reflex (urination control)
What is a somatic reflex?
an involuntary response that involves skeletal muscles, allowing the body to react quickly to potentially harmful stimuli.
Examples: knee-jerk reflex + withdrawal reflex
What is a spinal reflex?
a quick, automatic response to a stimulus that is processed in the spinal cord, without the brain being directly involved
Examples: knee-jerk reflex + withdrawal reflex
what is a cranial reflex?
a reflex action that is processed in the brainstem (part of the brain), rather than the spinal cord
Examples: blinking reflex + gag reflex + salivary reflex
