Coordination and control Flashcards
What is the role of the nervous system in coordination and control?
The nervous system sends signals throughout the body to control actions and responses, helping the body react to changes and maintain balance.
What are the two main parts of the nervous system?
Central Nervous System (CNS): The brain and spinal cord, which process information.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Cranial and spinal nerves-Nerves that connect the CNS to the rest of the body.
What is the difference between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?
Somatic Nervous System: Controls voluntary movements (e.g., moving muscles).
Autonomic Nervous System: Controls involuntary actions (e.g., heartbeat, digestion).
What are reflex actions?
Reflex actions are automatic reactions to stimuli, like pulling your hand away from something hot, which happen quickly without thinking.
How do neurons transmit signals?
Neurons send electrical signals through axons. At the synapse, they release chemicals called neurotransmitters to pass the signal to the next neuron.
How does the endocrine system help with coordination and control?
The endocrine system uses hormones to regulate body functions like growth, metabolism, and mood, working alongside the nervous system.
How do the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems work together?
The sympathetic system prepares the body for stress (e.g., increasing heart rate), while the parasympathetic system helps the body relax (e.g., slowing the heart rate).
What are the main parts of the brain and their functions?
Cerebrum: Controls thinking, reasoning, and voluntary movements.
Cerebellum: Coordinates balance and movement.
Brainstem: Controls basic functions like breathing and heartbeat.
What are hormones?
Hormones are chemicals released by glands that regulate body processes, like growth or energy use.
What is a synapse?
A synapse is the space between two neurons where they communicate using chemicals called neurotransmitters.
What does the hypothalamus do?
The hypothalamus helps control body functions like temperature, hunger, and thirst, and links the nervous system to the endocrine system.
How does the body respond to stress?
The sympathetic system increases heart rate and energy, while the endocrine system releases stress hormones to help the body cope.
What are neurotransmitters?
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals between neurons, helping communication in the nervous system.
What does the spinal cord do?
The spinal cord transmits signals between the brain and the body and controls reflex actions.
How does the body regulate blood sugar levels?
The pancreas controls blood sugar by releasing insulin (to lower sugar) and glucagon (to raise sugar).
