B14 - Response to stimuli Flashcards
Define a taxis.
A response in which the direction of the stimulus determines the direction.
Give an example of a taxis.
Algae which moves towards light. This increases their chance of survival as they require light to photosynthesize.
Earthworms: move away from light, which leads them to soil to find better nutrients and safety.
Define a kinesis.
Change of speed in turning direction. The faster an organism turns, the more likely it is to find a favourable environment.
Give an example of a kinesis.
Woodlice - they will more rapidly change direction when in a dry area in order to try and find a damp one.
Define a tropism
Growth of a plant in response to a directional stimulus.
Give an example of a plant growth factor.
IAA (Indoleacetic Acid)
Phototropism: Which part of the plant produces IAA?
Cells in the tip
Which area does light cause IAA to move?
Towards the shaded side.
Phototropism: Which direction does the shoot bend towards?
Towards the light, as the plant has elongated on the shady side due to a higher IAA concentration.
Gravitropism: Which side does gravity influence IAA?
Forces the IAA to the lower side of the root
What is the Central Nervous System [CNS]?
Brain and Spinal Chord
What is the reflex sequence?
Stimulus, receptor, sensory, intermediate, motor, effector, response
What is the importance of reflex arcs?
Involuntary, protect the body from harm, they are fast, rapid.
Where are Pacinian Corpuscles found?
Deep in the skin
Describe the structure of a Pacinian Corpuscle.
A single sensory neuron at the centre of layers of tissue.