Chapter (1.2) Vocab

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The part of the peripheral nervous system that controls the glands and the muscles of internal organs (such as the heart).

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The brain and spinal cord.

Interneurons

Neurons within in the brain and spinal cord that communicate internally and process information between sensory inputs and motor outputs.

Motor (Efferent - OUT) Neurons

Neurons that carry out outgoing information from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles and glands.

Nerves

Bundled axons that form neutral cables connecting the Central Nervous System (CNS) with muscle glands, and sensory organs.

Nervous System

The body’s speedy, electrochemical communication network.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

The division of the autonomic nervous system that calms the body, conserving its energy.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The sensory and motor neurons that connect the central nervous system (CNS) to the rest of the body.

Sensory (Afferent - IN) Neurons

Neurons that carry incoming information from the body’s tissues and sensory receptors to the brains and spinal cord to the muscles and glands.

Somatic Nervous System

The division of the peripheral nervous system that controls the body’s skeletal muscles.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The division of the automatic nervous system that arouses the body mobilizing its energy.