Reflex Arcs

Step 1 to every reflex arc

sensory receptor activation in response to a stimulus

Step 2 to every reflex arc

sensory neuron transmits impulse to CNS

Step 3 to every reflex arc

interneurons process information (integration center - interneurons in the CNS synapse to process incoming information)

describe the two integration process that could occur

monosynaptic reflex arc (rare) - synapse between sensory and motor neuron

polysynaptic reflex are (common) - interneuron between sensory and motor neuron

Step 4 to every reflex arc

motor neuron transmits impulse to the effector

Step 5 to every reflex arc

effector responds to the signal

describe the main difference of an somatic reflex

one myelinated neuron carrying signal to effector under voluntary control (skeletal muscle)

describe the main difference of an autonomic reflex

two neurons - only preganglionic neuron has myelin - postganglionic neuron carries signal to effectors controlled involuntary (heart)