The Nervous System and Special Senses: Structure and Function

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to the structure and function of the nervous system and special senses.

Nervous System

The body's electrical and chemical messaging system controlling all functions including thinking, moving, and responding to the environment.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Composed of the brain and spinal cord, it processes information and coordinates actions.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Includes all nerves that branch out from the central nervous system to the rest of the body.

Neuron

The basic cell in the nervous system responsible for transmitting electrical signals.

Synapse

The tiny gap between neurons where signals are transmitted.

Neurotransmitter

The chemical messenger that crosses the synapse from one neuron to another.

Reflex

An automatic response that occurs without the brain's involvement, e.g., pulling away from something hot.

Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain responsible for thinking, decision-making, and movement.

Cerebellum

The part of the brain that coordinates balance and muscle movements.

Brainstem

Controls automatic functions like breathing and heart rate.

Pupil

The opening in the eye that controls the amount of light entering.

Iris

The colored part of the eye that adjusts the size of the pupil.

Retina

The light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye that contains rods and cones for detecting light.

Olfactory receptors

Special cells in the nose that detect odors.

Taste buds

Sensory organs on the tongue that detect different flavors.

Cochlea

A spiral structure in the inner ear that processes sound.

Auditory nerve

Carries sound signals from the inner ear to the brain.

Vestibular system

The part of the inner ear that helps control balance and body position.