Coordination and Response Flashcards
what is a stimulus (stimuli)?
any change in the internal or external environment
what is the function of receptors ?
how do they communicate with effectors?
to detect stimuli
communicate with effectors via nervous system / hormonal system / both
what are effectors ?
give some examples
cells that bring about a response to the stimuli
examples - muscle cells contract and gland cells (like pancreas) secrete hormones
describe the Central nervous system (CNS)
made up of neurons (nerve cells)
consists of brain and spinal cord
coordinates the response to a stimuli
very rapid responses with fast electrical impulses
what are the sense organs ?
eyes, ears, nose, tongue, skin
what are reflexes ?
automatic responses to certain stimuli which help prevent injury
what is the reflex arc?
stimulus – receptor – sensory neuron – relay neuron – motor neuron – effector – response
what are the three main neurons ?
what are their functions?
sensory neuron - carry signals from receptors to spinal cord / brain
relay neuron - carry messages from one part of CNS to another
motor neuron - carry signals from CNS to effectors
what is the function of the conjunctiva ?
lubricates and protects surface of eye
what is the function of the cornea ?
refracts (eye) light into eye
is transparent and has no blood vessels so oxygen diffuses in from outer surface
what is the function of the iris?
controls diameter of pupil, therefore how much light enters the eye
what is the function of the lens?
focuses the light onto retina
what is the function of the retina ?
responsible for colour and bright light
uses light receptors called cones and rods
what is the function of the rod receptors ?
provide side vision and sight in dim light
what is the function of the cone receptors ?
provide coloured vision and sharp central vision
what is a synapse?
located in the CNS
gap between neurons which passes electrical messages or chemical signals
works with neurotransmitters
reaction time depends on how fast signals are passed
Depressants
slows brain activity / slow reaction time
examples - alcohol, solvents and temazepam
Stimulants
increases brain activity / faster reaction time
examples - nicotine, caffeine, ecstasy