Nervous System and Neurons 24-25

Central Nervous System

Includes brain and spinal cord, processes incoming messages from sensory neurons and sends commands to motor neurons.

Peripheral Nervous System

Relays messages between CNS and body, includes autonomic and somatic. Made up of all the neurons that are NOT in your brain and spinal cord.

Autonomic Nervous System

Governs involuntary processes that keep your body alive without your conscious awareness or control, includes parasympathetic and sympathetic.

Somatic Nervous System

Controls voluntary processes in the body.

Neurons

Cells that transmit information in the nervous system.

Glial Cells

Supportive cells providing structure and insulation to neurons

Reflex Arc

Neural pathway for reflex actions involving sensory and motor neurons that does not include the brain in the response. The spinal cord will direct the response.

Sensory Neurons

Transmit sensory information to the central nervous system. These exist in the peripheral nervous system.

Motor Neurons

Carry signals from CNS to muscles for movement. These exist in the peripheral nervous system.

Interneurons

Connect sensory and motor neurons within the CNS. These exist exclusively in the brain and spinal cord.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Part of autonomic system, promotes rest and digestion.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of autonomic system, prepares body for fight or flight.