The nervous system

What are the main components of the nervous system?

Brain, Spinal cord, Nerves, Neurons, Interneurons, Motor neurons, Sensory neurons, Glial cells.

What is the function of the brain in the nervous system?

Processes sensory information.

What is the role of the spinal cord?

Allows signals to be transmitted between sensory organs, neurons, and the brain.

What do glial cells do?

Provide physical and chemical support to neurons.

What separates one neuron from another?

Synapse.

What are the two main systems of the nervous system?

Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).

What does the peripheral nervous system consist of?

Nerves that extend out from the spinal cord.

What is the function of sensory neurons?

Send signals to and from the body to the brain and spinal cord.

What is the myelin sheath?

A fatty substance that coats the axon to speed up signals.

What layers protect the brain and spinal cord?

Meninges.

What is cerebrospinal fluid?

Fluid that protects and cushions the spinal cord and brain.

What are the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system?

Sympathetic and Parasympathetic nervous systems.

What is the sympathetic nervous system responsible for?

‘Fight or flight’ responses, increasing energy use, heartbeat, and blood pressure.

What is the function of the parasympathetic nervous system?

Returns the body to normal, involved in ‘rest and digest’ processes.

What are some examples of neurological disorders?

Bell's Palsy, Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis.

What does Parkinson's disease affect?

It affects motor functions due to the death of certain brain cells.

What distinguishes mixed nerves from sensory and motor nerves?

Mixed nerves carry signals in both directions; sensory nerves carry signals to the CNS, and motor nerves carry signals away from the CNS.

What is the cell body of a neuron also known as?

Soma.

What is the role of axon terminals in a neuron?

They send signals to other cells of the body.

What happens to the body during the sympathetic nervous system response?

The body prepares for emergencies; heartbeat and blood pressure increase.

What can cause neurological damage?

External injuries, genetic factors, environmental factors, and inflammation.