Human Anatomy & Physiology - Peripheral Nervous System

These flashcards cover the key concepts of the Peripheral Nervous System, including its divisions, functions, cranial nerves, reflex arcs, and sensory receptors.

What are the two functional divisions of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)?

Sensory and Motor.

What is the role of the sensory division of the PNS?

It consists of sensory (afferent) neurons that detect and transmit sensory stimuli to the CNS.

What are the two anatomical subdivisions of the sensory division?

Somatic sensory division and Visceral sensory division.

What functions does the somatic motor division control?

It controls voluntary motor functions through lower motor neurons that trigger skeletal muscle contractions.

What is the role of the autonomic (visceral motor) division of the PNS?

It maintains homeostasis by controlling involuntary motor functions in the body.

What are the two subdivisions of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

Sympathetic nervous system and Parasympathetic nervous system.

What do spinal nerves originate from?

Spinal cord.

What are mixed nerves?

Nerves that contain both sensory and motor neurons.

What structure houses the cell bodies of sensory neurons in the posterior root?

Posterior root ganglion (dorsal root ganglion).

How many pairs of cranial nerves are there?

12 pairs.

Which cranial nerves are purely sensory?

Olfactory (I), Optic (II), Vestibulocochlear (VIII).

What is the major function of the facial nerve (VII)?

Controls facial expression and secretions of lacrimal and salivary glands.

What is a reflex arc?

A programmed, automatic response to stimuli occurring in a sequence of events.

What are the two types of reflexes classified by organ type?

Somatic and visceral reflexes.

What is the function of the Golgi tendon reflex?

To protect muscles and tendons from excessive force by causing muscle relaxation.

What do receptors for proprioception detect?

Movement and position of joints or body parts.

What is referred pain?

Pain perceived in a region where no injury has occurred, often due to shared pathways between sensory nerves.