Understanding the Nervous System and Homeostasis

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the nervous system, its functions, components, and the concept of homeostasis.

Nervous System

A complex command center that controls and coordinates body activities and responds to stimuli.

Stimulus

Any change in the environment that causes a response.

Nerve Impulse

An electrical signal that travels through specialized cells in the nervous system.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord; the primary processing center for sensory information.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Conduit between the CNS and the body, comprising sensory and motor neurons.

Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain responsible for thinking, memory, learning, and voluntary movements.

Cerebellum

Part of the brain that controls balance, posture, coordination, and smooth muscle movements.

Brainstem

Connects the brain to the spinal cord and controls involuntary actions like breathing and heartbeat.

Somatic Nervous System

Regulates activities under conscious control, such as voluntary muscle movements.

Autonomic Nervous System

Regulates involuntary actions, controlling muscles and functions without conscious effort.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Prepares the body for 'fight-or-flight' response in times of stress or danger.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Promotes relaxation and conservation of energy; helps in digestion and slowing heart rate.

Neuron

The basic unit of the nervous system that processes and transmits information.

Dendrites

Part of a neuron that receives incoming messages.

Axon

Part of a neuron that carries the impulse away from the cell body.

Sensory Neurons

Carry impulses from the sense organs to the brain and spinal cord.

Motor Neurons

Carry impulses from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles.

Homeostasis

The dynamic process of maintaining stability while adjusting to changing environments.

Negative Feedback

Mechanism that counteracts deviations from set points to restore equilibrium.

Positive Feedback

Amplifies changes leading to rapid responses, such as during childbirth.

Mental Health Impact

Disorders like anxiety and depression can disrupt homeostasis and physiological functions.