Nerve Impulse Conduction and Nervous Systems

These flashcards cover key concepts about nerve impulse conduction factors, types of nerve fibers, axonal transport mechanisms, and the differences between the autonomic and somatic nervous systems.

Factors impacting nerve impulse conduction

1) Myelination - myelinated fibers conduct faster; 2) Diameter of axon - larger diameter results in faster conduction; 3) Temperature - warmer temperatures accelerate conduction.

Type A fibers

Large myelinated fibers that conduct at 130 m/s.

Type B fibers

Medium-sized myelinated fibers that conduct at approximately 15 m/s.

Type C fibers

Small unmyelinated fibers that conduct at 0.5-2 m/s.

Slow axonal transport

A unidirectional mechanism from the cell body to the axon that moves materials at a rate of 1-5 mm per day, important for growth and repair.

Fast axonal transport

A bidirectional mechanism that moves materials from the cell body down the axon and back at a rate of 200-400 mm per day.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

Regulates involuntary actions, including smooth muscle control, cardiac muscle, and glandular secretion.

Somatic Nervous System (SNS)

Controls voluntary movements and conscious sensations related to the skeletal system.