Nervous System: Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

• all the nerves that branch out from the CNS components and extend to other body parts- the sense organs, muscles, glands.

• function is to connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body and the external environment.

• Transmits information to and from the CNS.

• This is accomplished through nerves carrying out information from sensory receptors in the eyes, ears, skin, nose and tongue.

• Sense organs can detect changes in the environment and relay information through the sensory nerves to the CNS.

Main functions of the PNS:

• Voluntary movements such as chewing food, walking and facial expressions.

• Also regulates involuntary functions such as breathing, heart rate, digesting.