Nervous System Notes

1. Function of the Nervous System:  gives and receives input that tells our bodies when to move, in which direction, and at what speed. 

2. Define Neuron: the functional unit of the nervous system. a specialized cell that processes and teamsits information.

3. The 3 primary functions of the nervous system are sensory (input), integrative (analyze input), and motor function (response).

Define the following:

Sensory: the ability of the nervous system to sense changes (external and internal)

Integrative: the ability of the nervous system to analyze and interpret sensory information for proper decision-making.

Motor Function: response to the sensory information. Sends the signal back from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles.

4. Define Neural Activation: the communication link between the nervous and muscular systems. (contration of the muscle generated by neural stimulation)

5. Define Neurotransmitters: the chemical messenger your body cannot live without. Carries signals from one signal ¨messenger¨ from one neuron to the next target cell.

6. Define Central Nervous System: system compromising in the brain and spinal cord whose primary function is to coordinate the activity of all parts of the body.

7. Define Peripheral Nervous System: the portion of the nervous system that is outside the brain and spinal cord, whose primary function is to connect the central nervous system to the limbs and organs, serving as a communication relay with the rest of the body.

8. Define Reaction Time: the time delay between seeing and doing something.