The Nervous System - Year 9 Science

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the Year 9 Science lecture on the Nervous System.

Nervous System

A communication system that controls all parts of the body.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord; receives information from the body, processes it, and sends out responses.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Includes cranial and spinal nerves; carries messages to and from the CNS.

Neurons

Specialized cells that transmit information throughout the nervous system.

Sensory Neuron

A type of neuron that interacts with receptors to detect stimuli such as light, touch, and heat.

Relay Neuron (interneuron)

Transmits messages between sensory and motor neurons within the CNS.

Motor Neuron

Carries messages from the CNS to muscles and glands.

Reflex Arc

The pathway taken for an immediate response to a stimulus, including receptors, sensory neurons, spinal cord, motor neurons, and effectors.

Myelin Sheath

An insulating layer around axons that facilitates faster electrical impulse transmission.

Dendrite

Branching extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

Axon

The long part of a neuron where electrical impulses are transmitted.

Brain Stem

Part of the brain that controls vital functions such as breathing and heart rate.

Cerebellum

Controls coordination and balance, located at the base of the skull.

Cerebrum

Makes up 80% of the brain and is responsible for thoughts, feelings, and voluntary actions.

Left Hemisphere

Responsible for logic, science, and mathematics; controls the right side of the body.

Right Hemisphere

Responsible for creativity and arts; coordinates the left side of the body.