The divisions of the nervous system: central and peripheral (somatic and autonomic). Flashcards
What are the two main divisions of the nervous system?
Central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS).
What are the components of the central nervous system?
The brain and spinal cord.
What are the two divisions of the peripheral nervous system?
Somatic nervous system and autonomic nervous system.
What is the main function of the somatic nervous system?
It controls voluntary movements by transmitting sensory and motor signals to and from the CNS.
What is the main function of the autonomic nervous system?
It regulates involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate.
What are the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system?
Sympathetic nervous system and parasympathetic nervous system.
What is the role of the sympathetic nervous system?
It prepares the body for ‘fight or flight’ by increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, and inhibiting digestion.
What is the role of the parasympathetic nervous system?
It calms the body after stress by decreasing heart rate, constricting pupils, and stimulating digestion.
