6 - 5 Nervous System Flashcards
Functions of the Nervous System
- To sense the environment around us and react to it.
- To learn new information and apply what is learned.
- To recall memories (stored information).
- To regulate body metabolism.
Central Nervous System
The control center of the body containing the brain and spinal cord.
Peripheral Nervous System
A network of Neurons (Nerve Cells), that branch off of the central nervous system and connect with organs of the body.
Cerebrum
- The largest section of the brain.
- Interprets sensory information (ex. sound, sight, etc.)
- Center of conscious thought or thinking.
- Area for learning, creativity, memory, and decision making.
Cerebellum
- Located below cerebrum.
- Coordinates movements of the body (including learned behaviors such as writing, walking, etc.)
Medulla (Brain Stem)
- Where brain and spinal cord meet.
- Controls the functions of internal organs (ex. peristalsis, breathing rate, etc.)
- Controls some of your reflexes.
Hypothalamus
- Located at the base of the cerebrum.
- Helps to regulate hormone production in the body – super gland.
- Regulates body temperature and blood pressure.
Axon Terminals
transmitters
Schwann’s Cells
they make the myelin
Axon
the conducting fiber
Myelin Sheath
insulating fatty layer that speeds transmission
Dendrites
receivers
Reflex Arc Reaction
When sensory neurons do not send messages to the brain, but instead directly to the synapse in the spinal cord. This allows for faster reflex actions to occur by activating spinal motor neurons without the delay of routing signals through the brain.
Voluntary Actions
Actions that are under your control. (You think about them) Your Cerebrum controls these actions.
Examples of Voluntary Actions
- Verbal communication
- Writing
- Swimming
- Walking
