Nervous System Structure and Function

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding the structure and function of the nervous system, including major components, pathways, and specific brain regions.

What are the two main components of the nervous system?

The central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.

What does the central nervous system consist of?

The brain and the spinal cord.

What are the two divisions of the peripheral nervous system?

The cranial nerves and the spinal nerves.

What are the two major pathways in the nervous system?

Sensory pathways (afferent) and motor pathways (efferent).

What is the main role of the autonomic nervous system?

To maintain homeostasis without conscious control.

Name the four major lobes of the cerebral cortex.

Frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobes.

What is the primary function of the occipital lobe?

Visual processing.

Which part of the brain is responsible for higher executive functions?

The frontal lobe.

What is the function of the hypothalamus?

It is the major control center of the autonomic motor system and helps regulate homeostasis.

What is the role of the cerebellum?

It coordinates movements, maintains posture, and controls muscle tone.

What is decussation in the context of the nervous system?

The crossing over of sensory and motor pathways from one side of the CNS to the other.

List the cranial nerves.

Olfactory (I), Optic (II), Oculomotor (III), Trochlear (IV), Trigeminal (V), Abducens (VI), Facial (VII), Vestibulocochlear (VIII), Glossopharyngeal (IX), Vagus (X), Accessory (XI), Hypoglossal (XII).

What does the white matter in the spinal cord primarily contain?

Myelinated sensory and motor axons.

What is the role of the thalamus?

To process and relay sensory information.

What happens in the brainstem?

It connects the forebrain to the spinal cord and regulates vital functions like breathing and heart rate.

What are spinal nerves composed of?

Dorsal roots (sensory) and ventral roots (motor).

What does the peripheral nervous system control?

Cardiac muscle, smooth muscle, exocrine glands, and endocrine glands.