Nervous System Flashcards
Function of Nervous System
The function of the nervous system is to detect impulses from the senses; control center of the body
Major organs
Brain
Spinal Cord
Senses
Nerves
Difference between Neurons and Neuroglia
Neurons (make up 10% of the nervous system)
Neuroglia (“nerve-glue”, make up 90% of the nervous system)
Dendrite
receive the nerve impulses from the senses or another neuron
Soma
body of the neuron that holds the nucleus
Schwann Cells
type of glial cell that surrounds neurons
Node of Ranvier
impulses jump from node to node, which increase speed of impulse
Myelin
insulates the axon. Produced by the Schwann cells
Axon
passageway for nerve impulses after cell body; end in axon terminal
Axon Terminal
the button-like endings of axons through which axons make contact with other nerve cells.
CSF
The cerebrospinal fluid protects the brain by preventing the it from contacting the skull.
Cerebrum
Divided into 2 hemispheres
Controls conscious activities
The cerebrum is divided into 4 lobes, based on their functions. They are named for the parts of the skull protecting them.
Thalamus
Relays sensory impulses to the cerebral cortex for processing and sorting
Hypothalamus
Controls hormones released by pituitary gland (often called the “master endocrine gland”)
Responsible for autonomic processes (body temperature, hunger, sleep, thirst, blood volume, etc)
Brainstem
Located between the cerebrum and spinal cord.
Cerebellum
Responsible for coordinating the movements directed by the cerebrum so that they are graceful and efficient
