Nervous system Flashcards
What is the function of the Nervous system?
Generation and interpretation of nervous impulses - Swift regulation of body activity by using nerve impulses.
What are the TWO main divisions of the Nervous system?
Central & Peripheral
What is the main function of the Central NS?
Analysis & storage of sensory information,
Decision making.
What is the main function of the Peripheral NS?
Detection of changes/stimuli using receptors in the body.
What does the Central NS consist of?
The brain & spine.
What does the Peripheral NS consist of?
43 pairs of Cranial & Spinal nerves
What are the TWO sub-divisions of the Peripheral NS?
Somatic & Autonomic.
What are the TWO sub-divisions of the Autonomic NS?
Sympathetic & Para-sympathetic.
What is the difference between an afferent and efferent impulses?
Afferent impulses are sent UP to the CNS by the PNS, while Efferent impulses are sent DOWN to the effector.
What are the TWO types of Nervous tissue?
Neurons & Neuroglia.
What is a Tract?
A bundle of axons in the CNS.
What is a Nerve?
A bundle of axons in the PNS, aswell as connective tissue and blood vessels.
What are the FOUR types of Neuroglia?
Astrocytes,
Microglia,
Ependymal cells,
Oligodendrocytes.
What is the function of an Astrocyte?
Physical support, brace and anchor of neurons,
Helps form the BBB,
Maintains the chemical environment for the generation of nerve impulses.
What is the function of an Microglia?
Functions as a phagocyte in the CNS.