Structure and Organization of the Nervous System Flashcards
The Nervous System
An elaborate communication system that receives input; processes, integrates, and stores information; and triggers muscle contraction or glandular secretion
Homeostasis
The tendency of the body to maintain a state of equilibrium or a stable internal environment
Sympathetic Nervous System
The division of the autonomic nervous system that activates the body to cope with some stressor, such as danger, excitement, or fear; sometimes referred to as the fight, fright, and flight subdivision
Parasympathetic Nervous System
The division of the autonomic nervous system that oversees digestion, elimination, and glandular function; often works opposite to the parasympathetic nervous system to bring the body back to normal
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
A division of the peripheral nervous system that conducts nerve impulses to cardiac and smooth muscles; as well as to glands. May also be called the involuntary motor system.
Somatic Nervous System
A division of the peripheral nervous system that conducts nerve messages to skeletal muscles; may sometimes be called the voluntary nervous system.
Difference between Somatic and Autonomic Nervous Systems
The Somatic System is largely under voluntary control and its motor neurons carry information to the skeletal muscles (Except vagus nerve). The Autonomic system is under automatic, involuntary control and its nerves stimulate or inhibit glands or cardiac or smooth muscle.
Glial cells
Cells that account for about half the volume of the nervous system and outnumber neurons 10 to 1. They nourish neurons, remove their wastes, defend against infection, and provide a supporting framework for nervous system tissue.
