The nervous system and the endocrine system

Question 1

explain the structure of the central nervous system

Answer 1

• the CNS ( the body’s master control unit ) is made up of the spinal cord (a column of nerves between the brain and peripheral nervous system ) and the brain (divided into the hindbrain, the midbrain and the forebrain)

Question 2

what is the CNS responsible for ?

Answer 2

the control of the body and communication among its parts

Question 3

what is the primary function of the peripheral nervous system

Answer 3

to connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body and the external environment

Question 4

the peripheral nervous system can be divided into two sub parts. Name these parts and their functions

Answer 4

The autonomic nervous system - regulates involuntary bodily processes, including heart rate and digestion. Operates automatically without conscious direction

The somatic nervous system - carries sensory information from sensory organs to the CNS and relays motor commands to muscles. Controls voluntary movements

Question 5

the autonomic nervous system can be divided into two sub parts. Name these parts and their functions

Answer 5

Sympathetic nervous system - prepares the body for fight or flight response

Parasympathetic nervous system - calms the body and helps the body to conserve energy

Question 6

Define the endocrine system

Answer 6

• the main chemical messenger system of the body
• where hormones are secreted
  into the bloodstream from glands
• and then are transported towards target cells

Question 7

The pituitary gland

Answer 7

• considered to be the master gland because it controls the release of hormones form all other glands in the body

Question 8

The adrenal gland

Answer 8

• releases adrenaline which creates the physiological arousal preceding the fight or flight response
• causes increased heart rate and blood pressure for example

Question 9

Ovaries

Answer 9

• produces the hormone oestrogen
• responsible for female sexual characteristics
• menstruation and pregnancy

Question 10

Testes

Answer 10

Produce the hormone testosterone which is responsible for male sexual characteristics such as muscle mass

Question 11

The pineal gland

Answer 11

Produces the hormone melatonin which is responsible for the sleep wake cycle