Topic 1 - How Does Our Body Communicate With Us? Flashcards
describe the structure and function of the nervous system
function - a network of cells that allows animals to respond rapidly to their environment
structure - a network of cells made up of CNS and PNS
what is the nervous system
a network of cells that allows animals to respond rapidly to their environment
the nervous system is split into two parts what are they?
the CNS and the PNS
what does the CNS consist of
the brain and the spinal cord
what is the response and stimulus?
a response is a reaction to a stimulus. the stimulus is what causes someone to react and the response is how it reacts
what does CNS and PNS stand for
central nervous system
peripheral nervous system
outline the stimulus response pathway - detection
sensory organs (like the eyes, ears, skin etc.) detect changes in the environment e.g temperature, light and sound
outline the stimulus response pathway - processing
the sensory signals are sent to the brain via nerves. the brain interprets these signals and decides on the necessary response
outline the stimulus response pathway - response
the brain sends signals back through the nerves to the appropriate body parts to take action
what is the flowchart showing the response to a stimulus
stimuli - detection - cns/brain - effector - response
how does the nervous system help maintain homeostasis
by responding rapidly to changes, ensuring that vital conditions stay within optimal ranges
what is homeostasis
the process by which the body maintains a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions
