Nervous System

Question 1

What are the cells of the nervous system called?

Answer 1

Neurons

Question 2

Name the three types of neurons and the function of each type,

Answer 2

• Sensory neurons convey informational signals
• Interneurons integrate data and relay signals to other interneurons and motor neurons, and
• Motor neurons continue to convey signal from the CNS to effector cells that carry out a particular action

Question 3

Name the parts of a typical neuron.

Answer 3

A cell body, or soma, which gives rise to short extensions called dendrites that receive and convey nervous signals; and a single long axon that transmits info to other cells.
Gilia, or supporting cells, are essential for maintaining the structure of the neuron, which—like most other cells—contains a nucleus.

Question 4

Compare sensory and motor neurons.

Answer 4

While sensory neurons carry info from receptors to the CNS, motor neurons transmit signals to effector cells that carry out actions.

Question 5

Divide the nervous system into functional systems.

Answer 5

The nervous system can be divided into the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS)

Question 6

Describe the function of each of the divisions of the nervous system (CNS and PNS).

Answer 6

The CNS, which consists of the brain and, in vertebrates, the spine, acts as the command center of the nervous system. The PNS, on the other hand, consists of the organs that carry signals to and from the CNS.

Question 7

Describe the relationship between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.

Answer 7

Sympathetic division preps the body for high-energy tasks like fighting or fleeing; parasympathetic division tend to prime the body for activities that gain or conserve energy.

Question 8

State the function of each component of the brain.

Answer 8

Cerebrum: memory, learning, speech, and emotions
Cerebellum: coordinates movement
Pons and medulla oblongata: involuntary actions such as breathing
Brain stem: connects brain and spinal cord
Frontal lobe: speech, motor cortex
Parietal lobe: somasensory association (informs us of our external environment through touch)
Occipital lobe: vision
Temporal lobe: auditory association