Unit 1.2: Overview of the Nervous System

Question 1

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Answer 1

Consists of the brain and spinal cord; sends out orders to the body.

Question 2

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Answer 2

Made up of nerves branching off from the brain and spinal cord; connects the CNS to organs and muscles.

Question 3

Afferent Neurons (Sensory Neurons)

Answer 3

Carry signals from sensory receptors to the CNS. Think: Afferent = Approaches the brain.

Question 4

Efferent Neurons (Motor Neurons)

Answer 4

Carry signals from the CNS to muscles and glands in the body. Think: Efferent = Exits the brain.

Question 5

Somatic Nervous System

Answer 5

Controls voluntary movements and receives sensory input from the five senses; includes skeletal muscles.

Question 6

Autonomic Nervous System

Answer 6

Controls involuntary body functions like heartbeat, breathing, and digestion.

Question 7

Sympathetic Nervous System

Answer 7

Part of the autonomic system that prepares the body for action (fight or flight): increases heart rate, breathing, etc.

Question 8

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Answer 8

Part of the autonomic system that calms the body (rest and digest): slows heart rate, increases digestion.

Question 9

Fight or Flight Response

Answer 9

The body’s automatic reaction to perceived threats, initiated by the sympathetic nervous system.

Question 10

Rest and Digest

Answer 10

The body’s recovery state, controlled by the parasympathetic nervous system; focuses on energy conservation.