Body systems and nervous sysytems

Science

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Controls body and mind functions; consists of the brain and spinal cord.

Brain in nervous system

The control center of the nervous system; directs bodily functions and interprets information.

Spinal cord in nervous system

Carries signals between the brain and the body; controls reflexes.

Peripheral Nervous system

Connects the CNS to limbs and organs, acting as a communication relay.

Somatic Nervous system

Controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles.

Autonomic Nervous system

Regulates involuntary functions like heart rate, digestion, and breathing.

Sympathetic Nervous system

Prepares the body for stress and action; 'fight or flight' response.

Parasympathetic nervous system

Controls bodily functions at rest, slowing the heart and lowering blood pressure.

Axon

A long, slender projection that conducts electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body.

Cell body

The main part of a neuron containing the nucleus, integrating synaptic inputs.

Dentrites

Branch-like extensions of a neuron that receive electrical signals from other neurons.

Myelin sheath

A fatty insulating layer surrounding axons, increasing nerve impulse speed.

Nucleus

Contains the neuron's genetic material and controls its metabolic activities.

Synaptic Terminal

The end part of an axon where neurotransmitters are stored and released into the synapse.

Axon Terminal

The terminal branch of an axon where signals are transmitted to other cells.

Sensory Neuron

Afferent neurons that transmit sensory information from receptors toward the CNS.

Efferent Neuron

Neurons that carry signals away from the CNS to muscles and glands, initiating action.

Motor Neurons

A type of efferent neuron carrying signals from the CNS to muscles to control movement.

Interneurons

Neurons within the CNS that connect and communicate between other neurons, processing information and reflexes.