Nervous System Flashcards
What is the definition of the nervous system?
A highly complex system that reacts to stimuli and directs the body to respond in an appropriate manner
What are the 3 components of the nervous system?
- Sensory
- Integrative
- Motor
What is the sensory function of the nervous system?
Receptors which detect changes inside and outside of the body and transfer the information to spinal and cranial nerves
What is the integrative function of the nervous system?
Convert information in the sensory neurons to impulses and transmit the impulses to the CNS via peripheral nerves
What is the motor function of the nervous system?
Elicit an appropriate response to stimuli via PNS and effectors
Name 2 examples of effectors
- Muscle
2. Gland
Give a brief account of the reflex arc
- Stimulus arrives at a receptor
- Activation of a sensory neuron
- Information processed in CNS
- Activation of a motor neuron
- Response by an effector
What are the two parts of the nervous system?
- Central Nervous System (CNS)
2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
What parts of the body is the CNS composed from?
- Brain
2. Spinal Chord
What are the three main areas of the brain?
- Cerebrum
- Cerebellum
- Brainstem (Medulla Oblongata / Pons / Midbrain)
How many cranial nerves are found in the PNS?
12 pairs
How many spinal nerves are found in the PNS and where are they located?
31 pairs 8 Cervical 12 Thoracic 5 Lumbar 5 Sacral 1 Coccygeal
Where do the 12 pairs of cranial nerves originate from?
Nuclei present in the brain stem
What is the basic functional unit of the nervous system?
Neuron
What is the role of a dendrite?
Provide receptive surfaces to permit communication by interfaces with processes from other neurons
What is the role of an axon?
Conduct nerve impulses away from the cell body to the synaptic knob where the signal is passed onto adjoining cells
What is the definition of a peripheral nerve?
A bundle of myelinated axons that travel outside the CNS
What is the definition of grey matter?
A number of cell bodies grouped together which appear grey