Division Of The Nervous System Flashcards
Central Nervous System
Its main function is to process information received from the body’s internal and external environments and to activate appropriate responses. It comprises the brain and the spinal cord.
The brain
An intricate network of cells that play a vital role in processing information received from the body and in directing actions within the body.
Spinal cord
Receive sensory information from the body and send these messages to the brain for processing. Receives motor information from the brain and send it to the relevant part of the body to control muscles, glands and internal organs.
Peripheral Nervous System
The entire network of nerves located outside the CNS. Main function is to transmit information to and from the CNS.
Somatic Nervous System
Carries sensory information to the CNS and motor information from the CNS. Sub division of the peripheral nervous system.
Autonomic Nervous System
Connects the CNS to the body’s internal organs and glands. Its processes under its control are self-regulation and occur without conscious effort and are not usually under voluntary control.
Sympathetic Nervous System
It prepares the body to take action against a stressor and for the body to perform at maximum potential.
Parasympathetic Nervous System
Once the SNS activation has passed, the PNS aims to return the body to a balanced state.
