Central Nervous System, Spinal Nerves, and Cranial Nerves

Flashcards covering the central nervous system, spinal nerves, and cranial nerves.

Meninges

Three layers of connective tissue coverings around the brain and spinal cord: dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Clear, colorless liquid that circulates in the subarachnoid space and ventricles of the brain, providing protection and transporting nutrients and wastes.

Cervical Enlargement

Contains nerves that supply the upper limbs.

Lumbar Enlargement

Contains nerves that supply the lower limbs.

Sensory (Ascending) Tracts

Axons that conduct nerve impulses toward the brain.

Motor (Descending) Tracts

Axons that conduct nerve impulses away from the CNS.

Epineurium

The superficial covering over the entire nerve.

Reflex Arc

Pathway followed by nerve impulses that produce a reflex.

What are the four major parts of the brain?

The four major parts are: Brain stem, Diencephalon, Cerebrum, Cerebellum

What does the brain stem consist of?

Medulla oblongata, pons, and midbrain.

How does CSF circulate?

Circulates through the subarachnoid space around the brain and spinal cord, and through cavities called ventricles.

What are the two major nuclei of the medulla oblongata?

Cardiovascular center (regulates heartbeat and blood vessel diameter) and medullary respiratory center (adjusts basic rhythm of breathing).

What are the major regions of the diencephalon?

Thalamus, hypothalamus, and pineal gland.

Pineal Gland

Secretes the hormone melatonin.

Function of the Cerebellum

Compare intended movements programmed by the cerebral cortex with what is actually happening.

Function of the Cerebrum

Provides us with the ability to read, write, and speak; to make calculations and compose music; and to remember and to create.

The four lobes of each cerebral hemisphere

Frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, and occipital lobe.

Limbic System

Plays a primary role in a range of emotions, including pain, pleasure, docility, affection, and anger.

Left Hemisphere of the Brain

Important for spoken and written language, numerical and scientific skills, and reasoning.

Right Hemisphere of the Brain

More involved with spatial and pattern recognition and emotional content.

How many of the cranial nerves contain only axons of sensory neurons and thus are called sensory nerves?

Three cranial nerves (I, II, and VIII)

How many of the cranial nerves contain only axons of motor neurons as they leave the brain stem and are called motor nerves?

Five cranial nerves (III, IV, VI, XI, XII)