biopsychology 1 Flashcards
What is the nervous system?
specialised networks of cells that transfer electrical and chemical signals
What are the two main functions of the nervous system?
collect process and respond to info in the environment
Coordinate different organs and cells in the body
What are the two subsystems of the nervous system?
Central nervous system (CNS)
peripheral nervous system (PNS)
What is the CNS made up of?
Brain and spinal cord
What are the properties and structure of the brain?
Centre of conscious awareness cerebral cortex (outlay) is 3 mm thick divided into two hemispheres
What are the properties and function of the spinal cord?
extension of the brain
passes messages to and from the brain and connects nerves to PNS
what is the function of the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?
sends info to the CNS from the outside world
send messages from CNS to effectors
What are the subsystems of the PNS?
autonomic nervous system (ANS)
somatic nervous system (SMS)
what is the function of the ANS?
governs vital functions e.g. breathing heart rate digestion stress response
operates involuntary
What is the function of the somatic nervous system?
Governs muscle movement and receives info from sensory receptors
What are the subsystems of the autonomic nervous system?
sympathetic nervous system parasympathetic nervous system 
What are the biological changes associated with the sympathetic nervous system?
increased heart rate increase breathing rate Dilated pupils inhibited digestion inhibited saliva production contracted rectum
What are the biological changes associated with the parasympathetic nervous system?
decreased heart rate decrease breathing rate constricted pupils stimulated digestion stimulating saliva production relaxed rectum
What is the endocrine system?
Information system the instruction glands to release hormones directly into the bloodstream
works slower than nervous system
has widespread effects
What are glands?
organs that produces hormones