Nervous System Functions and Neurons

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the nervous system?

  • To digest food and absorb nutrients.
  • To produce hormones that regulate growth.
  • To rapidly transmit messages for body activities. (correct)
  • To regulate body temperature through sweat glands.

Which of the following describes the role of neuroglia (glial cells) in nervous tissue?

  • Transporting oxygen to neurons.
  • Providing support and protection to neurons. (correct)
  • Synthesizing neurotransmitters for synaptic transmission.
  • Generating electrical impulses to transmit signals.

What is the main function of the myelin sheath that surrounds an axon?

  • To protect the axon from physical damage.
  • To provide nutrients to the axon.
  • To increase the speed of impulse transmission. (correct)
  • To synthesize neurotransmitters.

How do neurons communicate with each other?

<p>By releasing neurotransmitters into synapses. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which division of the nervous system includes the brain and spinal cord?

<p>Central Nervous System (CNS). (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of sensory neurons in the nervous system?

<p>To carry signals from sensory receptors to the CNS. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is primarily controlled by the somatic nervous system?

<p>Voluntary movement of skeletal muscles. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of muscles are controlled by the autonomic nervous system?

<p>Smooth and cardiac muscles. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the function of the parasympathetic nervous system?

<p>Conserving energy and promoting relaxation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the sympathetic nervous system?

<p>To activate the body's 'fight or flight' response. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which extensions form the receptive surfaces of neurons?

<p>Dendrites (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the substance released from the axon to help send impulses?

<p>Neurotransmitters (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of motor neurons?

<p>They send signals that cause movement. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of nerves are part of the Somatic Nervous System?

<p>Efferent Nerves (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an effect of the parasympathetic nervous system?

<p>Increased digestive activity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of activity is the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for?

<p>&quot;Resting and Digesting&quot; (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of homeostasis?

<p>Maintaining stability (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is another name for the sympathetic nervous system's response?

<p>Stress Response (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When information is brought together and interpreted to create sensations, create thoughts, add to memory and make decisions, what part of the nervous system is in play?

<p>Processing and Interpreting (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a person touches a hot stove, what INPUT signal is sent?

<p>Sensory Neurons (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Damage to the cerebellum would most likely result in which of the following?

<p>Difficulties in coordinating movement and maintaining balance. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The gyri and sulci on the surface of the cerebrum are collectively known as what?

<p>Convolutions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a person has difficulties controlling their motor activities, behaviour, and emotions, which lobe of the cerebrum is most likely affected?

<p>Frontal Lobe (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the transverse fissure?

<p>Separating the cerebrum from the cerebellum. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the role of the medulla oblongata?

<p>Responsible for heartbeat, respiration and blood vessel diameter. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What would be the most likely result of damage to the occipital lobe?

<p>Impaired vision. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the function of Wernicke's area?

<p>Primarily involved in language comprehension. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of the corpus callosum?

<p>Connects the two hemispheres of the cerebrum and allows them to communicate. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where is Wernicke's area located?

<p>Temporal lobe (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the concept of contralateral processing in the cerebral cortex?

<p>The right side of the body is controlled by the left side of the cerebral cortex, and vice versa. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of the pons?

<p>Plays a role in respiration. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which region of the brain is responsible for interpreting body sense perception?

<p>Parietal lobes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where is the precentral gyrus in relation to the central sulcus?

<p>Anterior (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following brain structures is responsible for relaying visual and auditory impulses to the cerebrum?

<p>Midbrain (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following brain areas is most associated with executive functions, sound decision-making, and judgment?

<p>Frontal lobe (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which structure is inferior to the cerebrum and plays a role in controlling hormone levels, hunger and thirst, body temperature, sleep-wake cycles and sending information around the brain?

<p>Diencephalon (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following lists the four lobes of the brain?

<p>Frontal, Parietal, Temporal, Occipital (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Damage to Broca's area is most likely to cause which of the following impairments?

<p>Difficulty with the motor output of speech. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the brain is involved in integrating emotions?

<p>Temporal Lobes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does the cerebrum have convolutions (gyri and sulci)?

<p>To increase surface area and pack more brain into a smaller space. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following provides a protective cushion for the brain and spinal cord against shock?

<p>Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The spinal cord extends from the brainstem and exits the skull through which opening?

<p>Foramen magnum (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Spinal nerves connect directly to the spinal cord. What are the 'on-ramps' and 'off-ramps' that connect these nerves to the spinal cord highway referred to as?

<p>Spinal roots (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of tissue covers each spinal nerve, and what does each spinal nerve contain?

<p>Connective tissue; contains axon bundles and blood vessels (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many pairs of spinal nerves are there in the human body, and what is each pair named after?

<p>31 pairs; named after the spinal cord segment they originate from. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the term 'innervate' when referring to spinal nerves?

<p>The specific area of the body that the nerve supplies with information to and from. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many cervical nerves are there, and what are their designations?

<p>There are 8 cervical nerves designated C1-C8. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where do spinal nerves typically exit in relation to their corresponding vertebrae?

<p>Below their respective vertebrae. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the exception to the rule of spinal nerve exit in relation to vertebrae?

<p>In the cervical region, nerves C1-C7 exit above the corresponding vertebrae, but C8 exits below C7. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why reflexes do not require input from the brain?

<p>Reflexes are integrated within the spinal cord. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most likely outcome of damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord?

<p>Paralysis and loss of sensation below the injury site. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of spinal cord injuries, what does paralysis (plegia) refer to?

<p>The loss of the ability to move and/or feel. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key difference between quadriplegia and paraplegia?

<p>Quadriplegia affects all four limbs, while paraplegia affects only the lower extremities. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Hemiplegia' mean?

<p>Paralysis of one side of the body (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What best defines a stroke in medical terms?

<p>A disruption in blood flow to a part of the brain. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following causes can lead to a stroke?

<p>Either a blockage (blood clot) or hemorrhage (bleeding) in the brain (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary danger to brain tissue when a stroke occurs?

<p>Reduced oxygen supply causing tissue death. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common early symptom observed in stroke patients?

<p>Sudden vision and speaking difficulty. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following groups of symptoms is most indicative of a stroke?

<p>Sudden weakness, trouble speaking, sudden headache, and dizziness (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What potential occurrence is likely to result from age-related changes in the nervous system?

<p>Increased likelihood of injury (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to nerve impulses because of aging?

<p>Impulses do not travel as fast. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are spinal cord injuries in the cervical region more devastating than injuries in the thoracic region?

<p>Cervical injuries can result in quadriplegia. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is commonly comprised in Hemiplegia?

<p>The ability to swallow (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the protective layers surrounding the spinal cord called?

<p>Meninges (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which is NOT a common early symptom observed in stroke patients?

<p>A gradual loss in memory that worsens over time. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Nervous System Function

The nervous system is the body's rapid messenger, receiving and sending messages for body activities.

Neuroglia (Glial Cells)

Specialized cells that support, protect, and keep nervous tissue together, enabling proper function of neurons.

Neurons

Unique cells with a cell body and extensions (nerve fibers) that conduct impulses; can be sensory, motor, or interneurons.

Dendrites

Extensions of a neuron that form the receptive surfaces, receiving signals.

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Axon

Extension of a neuron that conducts impulses away from the cell body, often covered by a myelin sheath.

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Synapses

Connections between neurons where impulses are passed from one neuron to another using neurotransmitters.

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Neurotransmitters

Chemicals released from the axon at synapses to either excite or calm (inhibit) the receiving neuron.

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Central Nervous System (CNS)

The division of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

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Sensory Neurons

The INPUT signal is captured by these neurons

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Motor Neurons

The OUTPUT signal is delivered by these neurons.

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Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Division of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord.

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Somatic Nervous System

Division of the peripheral nervous system that controls skeletal muscles and voluntary movement.

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Autonomic Nervous System

Division of the peripheral nervous system that controls smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and some endocrine glands.

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Parasympathetic Nervous System

Branch of the autonomic nervous system that controls normal body functioning; responsible for 'resting and digesting'.

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Sympathetic Nervous System

Branch of the autonomic nervous system that controls the 'fight or flight' response to stress.

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Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain, split into right and left hemispheres by the longitudinal fissure.

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Gyri and Sulci

Ridges and grooves on the cerebrum's surface, increasing surface area.

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Cerebral Lobes

The frontal, parietal, occipital, and temporal lobes.

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Frontal Lobe Function

Motor activities, behavior, emotions, and conscious thought.

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Parietal Lobe Function

Body sense perception and language comprehension.

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Occipital Lobe Function

Responsible for vision.

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Temporal Lobe Function

Hearing, speech, language, and emotional integration.

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Broca's Area

Controls motor output for speech.

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Wernicke's Area

Language comprehension.

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Precentral Gyrus

Anterior to the central sulcus; responsible for motor activity.

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Contralateral Control

The right side of your body is controlled by the left side of your cerebral cortex, and vice versa.

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Cerebellum Function

Involved in sensory and motor coordination and balance.

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Midbrain

Relays visual and auditory impulses to the cerebrum.

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Pons

Plays a role in respiration.

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Medulla Oblongata

Controls heartbeat, respiration, and blood vessel diameter.

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Diencephalon Function

Controls hormone levels, hunger, thirst, body temperature, sleep-wake cycles.

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Corpus Callosum

Connects the two hemispheres of the cerebrum.

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Postcentral gyrus

Posterior to the central sulcus and is responsible for sensory integration (sensation).

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Cranium

Protects the brain; part of the skeletal system

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Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Fluid that cushions and protects the brain and spinal cord from shock.

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Meninges

Membrane layers that act as cushions and shock absorbers for the brain and spinal cord.

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Spinal Cord

Extension of the brain stem, composed of neurons covered by meninges.

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Foramen Magnum

Opening at the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes.

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Spinal Nerves

Nerves connected directly to the spinal cord.

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Spinal Roots

The 'on/off ramps' of the spinal cord.

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Spinal Nerves Functionality

Carry both sensory and motor information.

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Innervate (Nerves)

Specific skin areas that nerves innervate.

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Cervical Nerves

There are 8; emerge ABOVE their corresponding vertebrae (C1-C7).

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Reflexes

Simplest form of motor output; a protective mechanism.

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Spinal Cord Injury

Results in motor and sensory loss below the injury level.

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Quadriplegia

Complete paralysis of all four limbs due to cervical spinal cord injury.

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Paraplegia

Paralysis of the lower extremities, typically from an injury in the thoracic region.

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Hemiplegia

Paralysis of one side of the body due to brain damage or stroke.

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Stroke

Disruption of blood flow to the brain, leading to oxygen deprivation and tissue death.

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Stroke Symptoms

Sudden weakness, trouble speaking, vision problems, severe headache, dizziness.

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Study Notes

Spinal Cord

  • The spinal cord extends from the brain stem.
  • It exits the skull through the foramen magnum at the skull's base.
  • It is composed of many neurons covered by the meninges.
  • The spinal cord is smaller in diameter than a dime.

Spinal Nerves

  • Spinal nerves connect directly to the spinal cord.
  • The spinal cord functions like a highway with on-ramps and off-ramps which are called spinal roots.
  • Each spinal nerve is covered in connective tissue and contains axon bundles and blood vessels.
  • Each spinal nerve carries sensory and motor information.
  • There are 31 pairs of spinal nerves, each named for the spinal cord segment from which it emerges.
  • Nerves innervate specific body areas, carrying information to and from those areas.

Spinal Nerve Types and Locations

  • 8 cervical nerves (C1-C8)
  • 12 thoracic nerves (T1-T12)
  • 5 lumbar nerves (L1-L5)
  • 5 sacral nerves (S1-S5)
  • 1 coccygeal nerve
  • Spinal nerves exit the spinal cord and pass through a hole in the vertebra below its respective vertebrae.
  • The exception is in the cervical region where there are 7 cervical vertebrae and 8 cervical spinal nerves.
  • In the cervical region, spinal nerves exit above the vertebrae, starting at C1.
  • C8 exits below C7.

Reflexes

  • Reflexes are the simplest form of motor output.
  • Reflexes act as a protective mechanism.
  • Sensory impulses with reflexes do not reach the brain.

Spinal Cord Injuries

  • The spinal cord is protected by structures such as vertebrae and meninges.
  • Trauma can damage spinal cord nervous tissue.
  • Spinal cord injuries result in paralysis (plegia) in the area related to, and below, the injury location.
  • Spinal cord injuries causes a lack of sensory input and motor output below the injury.
  • Three meninge layers include: dura mater (hard mother), arachnoid (spider), and pia mater (tender mother).
  • Quadriplegia results from spinal cord injury in the cervical region, causing paralysis of all four limbs.
  • Paraplegia results from injuries in the thoracic region and below, causing paralysis of the lower extremity.
  • Hemiplegia is paralysis (plegia) of one side (hemi) of the body, compromising the arm, leg, body organs, vision, tongue and swallowing mechanisms on the affected side.

Stroke

  • A stroke involves disruption of blood flow to an area of the brain.
  • It may result from blockage (blood clot) or hemorrhage (bleeding).
  • When blood stops flowing, the affected brain area no longer receives oxygen, and the brain tissue dies.
  • Stroke symptoms relate to the affected brain area and appear suddenly.

Stroke Warning Signs

  • Sudden weakness or loss of strength
  • Trouble speaking or sudden confusion
  • Vision problems
  • Severe and unusual headache
  • Sudden dizziness or loss of balance

Aging and the Nervous System

  • Aging slows reaction time, and impulses do not travel as fast.
  • Aging individuals become more prone to injury.
  • Injuries can include falls, burns, and trauma.

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