Unit 1.2: Overview of the nervous system

explain the different functions of the nervous system's main divisions, and describe the three main types of functions

nervous system

the body’s communication network made up of nerve cells

central nervous system (CNS)

The brain and spinal cord that is in charge of decision-making

peripheral nervous system

transmits the central nervous system’s decisions to other parts of the body

nerves

passes messages to other neurons

sensory neurons

Carry messages from the body’s tissues and sensory receptors

motor neurons

sends messages from the CNS to muscles and glands

interneurons

where information is processed

somatic nervous system

allows control of skeletal muscles

autonomic nervous system

controls things your body does automatically

sympathetic nervous system

expands energy by triggering “fight or flight”

parasympathetic nervous system

conserves the body’s energy as it calms you

reflexes

automatic responses to stimuli