Visualizing Human Bio Ch 7

What is the primary function of the nervous system?

To govern every conscious action in the body, facilitating communication, stimulus integration, and appropriate responses.

How does the nervous system differ from other control systems in the body?

The nervous system provides immediate responses, such as pulling a hand off a hot stove.

What are the two main components of the nervous system?

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

What does the Central Nervous System (CNS) consist of?

The brain and spinal cord, encased by the axial skeleton and covered by meninges.

What is the role of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)?

To extend from the CNS and include all afferent and efferent neurons, facilitating communication between the CNS and the body.

What types of receptors does the PNS use to gather information?

Special senses, general sensory receptors, and visceral receptors.

What are the two divisions of the PNS?

The somatic division, which involves conscious movement, and the autonomic division, which regulates involuntary functions.

What are the two subdivisions of the autonomic nervous system?

The sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight) and the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest).

What is the function of sensory neurons?

To detect environmental conditions and send information to the CNS.

What is the role of motor neurons?

To carry instructions from the CNS to the body.

What is a reflex arc?

A neural pathway that controls reflex actions, consisting of a sensory receptor, sensory neuron, integrating center, motor neuron, and effector.

What is an action potential in neurons?

A brief change in electrical conditions at a neuron's membrane, characterized by a rapid reversal of polarity.

What are the layers of the meninges?

Dura mater (tough outer layer), arachnoid (thin, web-like middle layer), and pia mater (innermost layer attached to neurons).

What is the function of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

To provide a constant environment for the CNS, protect against physical damage, and maintain the blood-brain barrier.

What are the four main parts of the brain?

The brain stem, diencephalon, cerebellum, and cerebrum.

What is the primary function of the brain stem?

To regulate vital functions such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure.

What role does the hypothalamus play in the nervous system?

It regulates circadian rhythms, body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and hormone secretion.

What is the largest portion of the brain responsible for higher functions?

The cerebrum, which is involved in learning, memory, voluntary movement, and sensory processing.

How do the cerebral hemispheres differ in function?

The right hemisphere is involved in spatial relationships and face recognition, while the left hemisphere is responsible for language and logical reasoning.

What is the significance of the corpus callosum?

It connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres, facilitating communication between them.

What are the phases of memory?

Immediate, short-term, and long-term memory.

How does stress affect learning?

Fight or flight conditions can drastically reduce the ability to learn.