The Nervous System Flashcards
Why must organisms be aware of what is going on around them?
Organisms must be aware of what is happening around them, as this affects their survival chances.
What is co-ordination of an organism’s activities carried out by?
Co-ordination of an organism’s activities is carried out by the nervous system and the endocrine system.
What does a nervous system allow an organism to do?
A nervous system allows an organism to detect and respond to stimuli in its internal or external environment.
What is a stimulus?
A stimulus is any change in your environment e.g. a flash of light, a noise, a fly landing on your nose.
What does the nervous system rely on and what is it involved in?
The nervous system relies on electrical signals, carried by specialised cells [neurons], and is involved in fast responses.
What is the central nervous system? + abbreviation
The central nervous system (CNS) is your brain and spinal cord.
What does the brain do?
The brain keeps a check on internal organs and activities, such as the level of carbon dioxide or water in the blood.
What is the peripheral nervous system? + abbreviation
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is the nerves branching from the CNS to all parts of the body.
What are the cells involved in the endocrine system?
gland
What are the cells involved in the nervous system?
sense receptor
What is the message in the endocrine system?
chemical (Hormone)
What is the message in the nervous system?
electrical (impulse)
What is it carried by in the endocrine system?
blood
What is it carried by in the nervous system?
nerve cell
Where is the message sent to in the endocrine system?
cells throughout the body
Where is the message sent to in the nervous system?
specific cell or tissue
What is the message received by in the endocrine system?
target organ
What is the message received by in the nervous system?
effector (muscle/gland)
What is the speed of transition in the endocrine system?
usually slow
What is the speed of transition in the nervous system?
rapid