Control and coordination

Reflex Action

A sudden action in response to an environmental stimulus that occurs without conscious thought.

Nervous System

The system in animals responsible for control and coordination, consisting of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

Neuron

A specialized nerve cell that transmits electrical impulses in the nervous system.

Synapse

The gap between two neurons where the electrical impulse is converted into a chemical signal.

Hormone

A chemical signal produced by glands that regulates various functions in the body.

Adrenaline

A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands that prepares the body for fight or flight responses.

Pituitary Gland

An endocrine gland that secretes hormones regulating various body functions, including growth.

Tropism

Directional growth movement in plants in response to external stimuli such as light or gravity.

Auxins

Plant hormones that promote growth by causing cells to elongate, particularly in response to light.

Reflex Arc

A neural pathway that controls reflex actions, allowing for quick responses without involving the brain.

Central Nervous System

The part of the nervous system that includes the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing information.

Voluntary Action

Actions that are consciously controlled and require thought before execution.

Involuntary Action

Actions that occur automatically without conscious thought, such as breathing or digestion.