Brain & Behavior Quiz

Functions of the Spinal Cord

• Acts as a major conduit for information traveling between the brain and the body.
• Facilitates reflexes through spinal cord circuits, allowing for immediate responses to stimuli.
• Contains pathways for sensory and motor signals, enabling coordination of voluntary and involuntary movements.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

• Encompasses all neurons located outside the Central Nervous System (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord.
• Divided into somatic (voluntary control over muscles) and autonomic (involuntary control over bodily functions) sub-systems.

Role of the Central Nervous System

• Serves as the control center for processing information and generating responses.
• Integrates sensory data and coordinates motor activities, regulating functions critical for survival.
• Involves higher cognitive functions such as thinking, learning, memory, and emotion.

Function of a Neuron

• Specialized cells that transmit electrical and chemical signals throughout the nervous system.
• Comprised of dendrites (receive signals), a cell body (processes signals), and axons (send signals to other neurons or muscles).
• Essential for communication within the nervous system, facilitating reflexes, thoughts, and behaviors.

Importance of Studying Brain and Behavior

• Understanding the connection between brain structure and function helps reveal how mental processes and behaviors develop.
• Insights into neurological disorders and conditions can lead to better treatment and prevention strategies.
• Enhances knowledge of emotional and cognitive functions, influencing psychology, education, and various scientific fields.