2.4: The Nervous System

nervous system

System of nerves in the body

central nervous system

The part of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal cord

peripheral nervous system

The part of the nervous system that connects the central nervous system with everything else: sense organs, muscles, glands, etc.

hindbrain

“Primitive“ part of the brain where all work is done automatically, without conscious effort

medulla

Structure in the hindbrain that controls breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure

pons

Structure in the hindbrain that connects the rest of the brain to the cerebellum

cerebellum

Part of the brain with 2 hemispheres that assists with body functions like reflexes, balance, breathing, movement, and coordination

midbrain

Part of the brain that registers hearing, seeing, and pain.

forebrain

Part of the brain that contributes to the highest kinds of “human“ thinking. Consists of the thalamus, hypothalamus, and cerebral cortex.