Nervous System Overview

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to the central and peripheral nervous systems, including divisions and functions.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Composed of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Includes all parts of the nervous system except the brain and spinal cord.

Sensory (Afferent) Division

Carries sensory signals from various receptors to the CNS.

Motor (Efferent) Division

Carries signals from the CNS to glands and muscle cells.

Somatic Sensory Division

Carries signals from receptors in the skin, muscles, bones, and joints to the CNS.

Visceral Sensory Division

Carries signals from the viscera of the thoracic and abdominal cavities to the CNS.

Somatic Motor Division

Carries signals to skeletal muscle.

Visceral Motor Division

Carries signals to glands, cardiac muscle, and smooth muscle.

Sympathetic Division

Tends to arouse the body for action.

Parasympathetic Division

Tends to have a calming effect on the body.

Ascending Signals

Sensory information headed towards the brain.

Descending Signals

Motor information headed towards organs and muscles.