Nervous System Flashcards
What is the Nervous System?
Specialised network of cells (primary internal communication system)
What are the two functions of the Nervous System?
1.Collect, process, and respond to information in the environment
2.Coordinate the working of different organs and cells in the body
What are the two subsystems of the Nervous System?
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) and Central Nervous System (CNS)
What is the function of the CNS?
Concerned with all functions and psychological processes
What are the two components in the CNS?
Spinal cord and the brain
What is the function of the spinal cord?
Responsible for reflex actions and passes messages to and from the brain and connects nerves to the PNS
What is the function of the brain?
Centre of all conscious awareness so controls life functions/psychological processes/higher mental functions
What is the function of the PNS?
Transmits messages via neurons to and from nervous system
What is the PNS subdivided into?
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and Somatic Nervous System (SNS)
What is the function of the SNS?
Controls muscle movement and receives information from sensory receptors
What is the function of the ANS?
Transmits information to and from internal organs and governs vital functions in the body e.g. breathing
What is the ANS subdivided into?
Sympathetic Nervous System (SyNS) and Parasympathetic Nervous System (PaNS)
What is the function of the (SyNS)?
Generally increases bodily activities (fight or flight e.g. increased heart rate)
What is the function of the PaNS?
Generally maintains or decreases bodily activities (conserves energy e.g. decreased heart rate)
How do the SyNS and PaNS operate to each other?
In opposition
