Divisions of the nervous system Flashcards
What is the nervous system?
A specialised network of cells that enables communication within the body
What does the central nervous system consist of?
The brain and spinal cord
What is the function of the brain?
It controls thought, perception and voluntary movement
What is the function of the spinal cord?
It relays information between the brain and the rest of the body (peripheral NS).
It is also responsible for reflex actions.
What is the function of the peripheral NS?
It transmits messages to and from the CNS to the rest of the body through nerves
What does the peripheral NS consist of?
The somatic and autonomic NS
What is the function of the somatic NS?
1) It controls voluntary movements by transferring information from the brain through the spinal cord to the muscles.
2) It transmits sensory information between the sense receptors and the CNS
3) It governs skeletal muscles, reflex actions, and integrates the brain with the outside world.
What is the function of the autonomic NS?
1) It manages involuntary processes
2) Responsible for transmitting information to and from internal bodily organs
What is the autonomic NS made up of?
The sympathetic and parasympathetic NS
What is the function of the sympathetic NS?
It activates the fight or flight response by increasing bodily functions
What is the function of the parasympathetic NS?
It promotes the rest and digest response by decreasing bodily functions to conserve energy
