Chapter 3: Nervous System and Brain Parts Flashcards
What is the brain behaviour network?
networds of neurons that generate thought
What is the central nervous system composed of?
the brain and the spinal cord.
What is the peripheral nervous system?
nerves that extend outside of the central nervous system
What is the somatic nervous system?
branch of the peripheral nervous system that allows us to sense and respond to environment.
What does the somatic nervous system regulate?
posture and movement – voluntary actions
what does the autonomic nervous system regulate?
internal state; equilibrium
What system does the autonomic nervous system interact with?
the limbic system (emotional and physical states)
parasympathetic vs. sympathetic
relaxing, rest and digest andddd arousal (fight or flight)
how much energy does the brain use up?
20% (blood and glucose)
brain development over time
more recent structures built on top; basic functions and newer systems more complex;
3 main parts in hindbrain
cerebellum, pons, medulla
What does the cerebellum do?
handles balance, motor coordination, motor learning, executive functioning, language, spatial abilities
What does the pons do?
bridge between higher and lower brain areas, helps control vital functions
What does the medulla do?
breathing, heart rate, vital functions occur automatically
What does the brain stem do?
relay cortex between brain and spinal cord w
What does the mid brain do?
handles movement, tracking visual stimuli, auditory reflexes
When the Resticular Activating System (RAS) is in ascending/arousal mode, what does it do?
activates the cortex,
increases signal noise ratio
when the reticular activating system is descending/ gate keeping, what does it do?
ignores distractions, important for attention.
Can turn off sensory inputs
What does the Reticular activating system do in consciousness and sleep?
controls being asleep, can make people go unconscious
What happens if the Reticular activating system is damaged?
coma
2 different kinds of loss of consciousness
damage to medulla = brain dead
damage to cortex = persistent vegetative state
