6B Flashcards
What is the primary function of the nervous system?
To control bodily movements and internal processes
The nervous system is responsible for awareness, emotions, and responses to stimuli.
What is a stimulus?
A piece of information that the body can match to
Stimuli can be external or internal and provoke a response.
What does ‘response’ refer to in the context of the nervous system?
The body’s reaction to a stimulus
Responses can be voluntary or involuntary.
What are neurons?
Cells that generate or transfer nerve impulses
Neurons are the fundamental units of the nervous system.
What are nerve impulses?
Electric signals that travel through the body
These signals facilitate communication within the nervous system.
List the main components of a neuron.(7)
- Cell body
- Cytoplasm
- Organelles
- Nucleus
- Dendrites
- Axon
- Axon end
## Footnote
Each component plays a crucial role in the function of the neuron.
What are the three kinds of neurons?
- Sensory neurons
- Motor neurons
- Interneurons
Sensory neurons connect sensory input to interneurons, while motor neurons transmit signals to muscles.
True or False: Interneurons connect sensory neurons to motor neurons.
True
Interneurons play a crucial role in processing information within the nervous system.
What does the peripheral nervous system consist of?
Everything that extends from the central nervous system
The peripheral nervous system includes all nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
Define the central nervous system.
The brain and spinal cord
The central nervous system is responsible for processing information and controlling responses.
True or False: The peripheral nervous system is part of the central nervous system.
False
The peripheral nervous system is distinct from the central nervous system.
Fill in the blank: The _______ nervous system includes all nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
peripheral
This system connects the central nervous system to limbs and organs.
What is the primary function of the central nervous system?
Processing information and controlling responses
It integrates sensory information and coordinates voluntary and involuntary actions.
What is the average weight of the human brain?
About 14 kg
The weight can vary slightly among individuals.
How many neurons are in the human brain?
Over 16 billion neurons
Neurons are the primary cells in the brain responsible for transmitting information.
How many pairs of cranial nerves are there?
12 pairs of cranial nerves
Cranial nerves are responsible for sensory and motor functions of the head and neck.
What are the three main parts of the brain?
- Cerebrum
- Cerebellum
- Brainstem
Each part has distinct functions and structures.
Which part of the brain is the largest?
Cerebrum
It is responsible for higher brain functions such as thought and action.
How is the cerebrum structured?
It consists of 2 dome-shaped halves (hemispheres)
The hemispheres are connected by white connective tissue.
What is the natural color of the cerebrum’s gray matter?
Grayish
Gray matter contains the cell bodies of neurons.
What is the function of the cerebellum?
Helps with motor control
It plays a crucial role in coordination and balance.
What does the brainstem control?
- Most involuntary actions
- Posture
- Balance
The brainstem is vital for regulating essential life functions.
Fill in the blank: The cerebellum is not the largest portion of the brain but helps with _______.
motor control
It coordinates voluntary movements and maintains posture.
True or False: The brainstem is located above the cerebrum.
False
The brainstem is located below the cerebrum.
