The autonomic nervous system

Question 1

what is Homeostasis

Answer 1

Keeping the body in a constant and balanced internal state.
For example:

Levels of carbon dioxide in the blood controlled through regular breathing.

Body temperature maintained at 37 degrees centigrade by monitoring activity of the body’s organs.

Question 2

what is An ‘automatic’ system

Answer 2

We don’t have to consciously direct the ANS.
Breathing, our heart beating, etc., is vital to life so it needs to be involuntary.

Question 3

what is Sympathetic nervous system

Answer 3

Works in opposition to the parasympathetic nervous system.
A state of physiological arousal (e.g. heart beats faster) ready for the fight or flight response.

Question 4

what is Parasympathetic nervous system

Answer 4

The parasympathetic nervous system produces the opposite effect to the sympathetic nervous system.
The rest and digest response which returns the body to normal resting state once the threat has gone.

Question 5

hwo does the brain detect threats

Answer 5

The hypothalamus identifies a threatening event (a stressor).
Triggers the sympathetic division of the ANS to act.

Question 6

how do we release adrenaline

Answer 6

The ANS changes from resting state (parasympathetic) to an aroused (sympathetic) state.
The stress hormone adrenaline is released from the adrenal glands into the bloodstream.

Question 7

what is Fight or flight response

Answer 7

Immediate and automatic.
Adrenaline targets the cardiovascular system, increasing heart rate and breathing.
Also inhibits digestion and increases saliva production.
Prepares the body to confront the threat (fight) or provide energy to run away (flight).

Question 8

what happens when the threat has passed

Answer 8

Parasympathetic division returns body to normal ‘rest and digest’ state.
Digestion and hunger stimulated.