Lecture Notes on The Central Nervous System

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the lecture notes on the central nervous system.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord, controlling sensation, perception, movement, and thinking.

Axons

Carry nerve impulses in one direction, away from the cell body.

Neuron Types

Unipolar sensory neurons carry impulses to the CNS, while multipolar motor neurons carry impulses from the CNS to the body.

Myelin

A white, fatty coating that speeds up nerve impulses.

Meninges

Three membranes that protect the brain and spinal cord.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Clear, watery fluid produced in the brain's ventricles that cushions and nourishes the CNS.

Ventricles

Interconnected cavities in the brain that contain cerebrospinal fluid.

White Matter

Composed of myelinated axons, functions to carry impulses rapidly.

Gray Matter

Consists of neuron cell bodies and unmyelinated axons, functions to 'make decisions' and generate impulses.

Reflex Arc

A neural pathway involving a sensory receptor, neurons, and an effector, responsible for reflex actions.

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)

A condition resulting from repeated brain injuries, often seen in athletes, leading to long-term cognitive decline.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

A part of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary visceral functions.

Sympathetic Division

Prepares the body for 'fight or flight' situations during stress.

Parasympathetic Division

Prepares the body for 'rest and digest' activities.

Spinal Nerves

31 pairs of mixed nerves that arise from the spinal cord and connect the CNS to the body.

Basal Nuclei

Clusters of neuron cell bodies in the brain that help control movement.

Hypothalamus

Region of the brain that regulates bodily homeostasis and autonomic functions.

Brainstem

The part of the brain connecting the cerebrum to the spinal cord, composed of the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.

Cerebellum

Part of the brain that integrates sensory information and coordinates voluntary movement.