the nervous system Flashcards
what two parts is the human nervous system divided up into?
the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system
what two sections is the PNS divided into?
the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system
what is the role of the PNS?
the PNS transmits messages throughout the whole body form the brain and also relays messages back to the brain
what is the role of the somatic nervous system?
the SNS transmits and receives messages from the senses apart from sight
why does the SNS not receive messages from sight?
because the retina and optic nerve are connected directly to the brain
how does the sense of touch use the SNS?
the sense of touch below the neck uses the SNS to communication with the spinal cord then relays the relevant signals to the brain
what does the SNS control?
the SNS directs muscles to move thus control voluntary, conscious movements e.g throwing a ball
what is the role of the autonomic nervous system?
the ANS transmits and receives information form the organs e.g heart rate, breathing, stress response and arousal
is the ANS voluntary or involuntary?
involuntary, it cannot be controlled consciously
what does the ANS further divide into?
the sympathetic nervous system (SPNS) and the parasympathetic nervous system (PSNS)
what is the sympathetic nervous system associated with?
the SPNS is as associated with the ‘fight or flight’ response in tandem with the endocrine system
when does the SPNS prepare the body for physical activity?
when the hypothalamus detects a stimulus which requires attention e.g running away from a threat
