General Functions of the CNS (Vocabulary)

Vocabulary flashcards covering the general functions and divisions of the CNS and how sensory input and motor output are coordinated.

Central nervous system (CNS) functions

Integrates, processes, and coordinates information; receives sensory input and produces appropriate motor responses.

Integration

The CNS activity of processing, interpreting, and coordinating sensory information to produce a coherent response.

Somatic nervous system

Motor pathway to skeletal muscles; voluntary control of movements.

Autonomic nervous system (ANS)

Regulates involuntary functions; subdivides into sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.

Sympathetic nervous system

Division of the ANS that prepares the body for stress (fight-or-flight); increases alertness, heart rate, and energy mobilization.

Parasympathetic nervous system

Division of the ANS that dominates during rest; promotes digestion, slows the heart rate, and conserves energy.

Fight-or-flight

A rapid sympathetic response to perceived threat, enabling quick action.

Voluntary (somatic) motor control

Conscious control of skeletal muscles for deliberate movements.

Sensory information

Stimuli detected by senses and transmitted to the CNS for processing.

Motor signal

Efferent commands sent from the CNS to muscles to produce movement.