Nervous system Flashcards
1
Q
What is the nervous system ?
A
- A specialised network of cells in the human body and is the main communication system
- Based on electrical and chemical signals
2
Q
What are the two main functions of the central nervous system ?
A
- To collect, process and respond to information in the environment
- To co-ordinate the different organs and cells
3
Q
What are the two main parts that the central nervous system ?
A
- Spinal cord
- Brain
4
Q
What is the brain ?
A
- the centre of all conscious thought
- The brain is highly developed in humans and has a higher mental function than other animals
- some animals don’t even have a brain like jellyfish
5
Q
What is the spinal cord ?
A
- extension of the brain
- It passes messages from the brain to coordinate reflex actions
- Connects nerves to the peripheral nervous system
6
Q
What is the peripheral nervous system ?
A
Transmits messages via millions of neurones to and from the central nervous system
7
Q
What are the two parts to the peripheral nervous system ?
A
- Autonomic nervous system
- Somatic nervous system
8
Q
What is the autonomic nervous system ?
A
Governs vital function in the body such as breathing rate, heart rate, digestion and stress responses
9
Q
What is the somatic nervous system ?
A
Governs muscle movement and receives information from the sensory receptors
