Functional Organization of the Nervous System

Question 1

What is the nervous system?

Answer 1

> The nervous system is the master controlling and communicating system of the body
It is responsible for all behavior
Along with the endocrine system it is responsible for regulating and maintaining body homeostasis
Cells of the nervous system communicate by means of electrical signals

Question 2

What are the 3 functions of the nervous system?

Answer 2

1. Gathering of sensory input
2. Integration or interpretation of sensory input
3. Causation of a response or motor output

Question 3

Describe the sensory input of the nervous system?

Answer 3

The nervous system has millions of sensory receptors to monitor both internal and external change

Question 4

Describe the integration of the sensory input in the nervous system?

Answer 4

It processes and interprets the sensory input and makes decisions about what should be done at each moment

Question 5

Describe the motor output of the nervous system?

Answer 5

Causes a response by activating effector organs (muscles and glands)

Question 6

What are the basic divisions of the nervous system?

Answer 6

1. Central Nervous Systems

2. Peripheral Nervous System

Question 7

Describe the organization of the nervous system?

Answer 7

1. The central nervous system
> Brain and spinal cord
> Integrative and control centers
2. The peripheral nervous system
> Spinal and cranial nerves
> Communication lines between the CNS and the rest of the body