The Nervous System Flashcards
What is the nervous system
The body’s main communication system which is very fast acting. Its a complex network of specialised nerve cells (neurons) which pass information around the body using electrical signals and chemicals (neurotransmitters
What is the CNS made up of
Specialised skills (neurons) which pass info around the body using electrical signals and chemicals (neurotransmitters)
What is the function of the CNS
To pass information around the body using electrical signals and chemicals (neurotransmitters)
What the outer layer of the brain called
cerebral cortex - highly developed in humans and distinguishes our higher mental functions from other animals
What is the spinal cord
An extension of the brain. Responsible for reflex actions
What is the PNS made up of
nerve fibres - connected to the CNS
What is the PNS
peripheral nervous system - divides into somatic and autonomic systems
Where does the PNS send info to/from
To the CNS from the outside world and transmits messages from the CNS to muscles and glads around the body
Whats the somatic nervous system
The SNS controls conscious movement as it sends instructions from the CNS to its effectors in the muscles/ glands. Transmits information from receptor cells in sense organs to the CNS
What is the nervous system made up of and why
Myelinated neurons - it needs to act quickly
What is the autonomatic system
Responsible for the control of involuntary bodily functions which aren’t consciously directed e.g. breathing and digesting - NOT THE SAME AS UNCONCIOUS
Where does it transmit information to/from
To and from internal bodily organs (doesn’t need sensory pathways)
What is the ANS made up of and why
Unmyelinated nerve fibres - needs to act slower than the SNS
What are the divisions of the ANS
- sympathetic nervous systems
- parasympathetic nervous systems
What is the sympathetic nervous system
Works with the endocrine system to get the body prepared for fight or flight
