reflexes

Question 1

what is a reflex

Answer 1

a reflex is a rapid, automatic response to a change in the external or internal environment

Question 2

what is a spinal reflex

Answer 2

reflex is carried out by the spinal cord the message is not sent to the brain until after a response has been carried out. therefore it is involuntary

Question 3

describe the process of a reflex arcs

Answer 3

1) detects stimulus (change in internal/external environment)

2) sensory neuro- sends a message to CNS

3) message is passed on (i.e at least one synapse) either to a motor neuron or interneuron

4) motor neuron- sends a message to the effector

5) effector (muscle/gland) carries out the response

Question 4

what are the two types of reflexes

Answer 4

innate reflexes- e.g suckling/following movements with eyes, gasping

acquired reflexes- e.g catching a ball/braking while driving

Question 5

what are the four properties of all reflexes?

Answer 5

a stimulus is required to trigger a reflex
a reflex is involuntary
a reflex response is rapid
a reflex response is stereotyped

Question 6

explain a stimulus is required to trigger a reflex

Answer 6

the reflex is not spontaneous

Question 7

explain a reflex is involuntary

Answer 7

it occurs without any conscious thought

Question 8

explain a reflex response is rapid

Answer 8

only a small number of neurons are involved

Question 9

explain a reflex response is stereotyped

Answer 9

it occurs in the same way each time it happens