Neurons Flashcards
What are neurons?
Neurons are nerve cells that make up the nervous system.
How do neurons communicate messages?
Electrical impulses carry messages along neurons very quickly.
What do receptors in sense organs detect?
Receptors detect stimuli, which are changes in our internal or external environment.
What are the three different types of neurons?
- Sensory neurons
- Inter neurons
- Motor neurons
What do sensory neurons do?
Carry electrical impulses from receptors to the central nervous system.
Where are inter neurons found and what is their function?
Inter neurons are found within the CNS and process information from the senses that requires a response.
What do motor neurons do?
Carry electrical impulses from the CNS to effectors (muscles or glands) to enable a response.
What is the gap between neurons called?
Synapse
How are messages transferred between neurons?
Chemicals transfer these messages at the synapse.
What is a reflex arc?
A reflex arc is a neural pathway that controls a reflex action.
What triggers a reflex response?
A stimulus that indicates an organism could be in danger of harm.
Is the reflex response voluntary or involuntary?
Involuntary
What is the function of the reflex arc?
To protect the body from harm.
Give an example of a reflex action.
Blinking to protect the eye.
What is the first step in the reflex arc process?
Stimulus is detected by receptors.
Fill in the blank: The electrical impulse reaches the __________ between sensory and inter neuron.
synapse
What happens after the electrical impulse reaches the synapse between sensory and inter neuron?
A chemical is released and travels across the synapse.
What occurs at the effector in a reflex arc?
Response occurs in either a muscle or a gland.
What happens to muscles during a reflex response?
Muscles contract to cause movement.
What do glands do in response to a reflex?
Release substances that affect the internal environment of the body.
