Nervous System Functions

Nervous System Overview

• Receives, interprets, and responds to stimuli from inside and outside the body
• Performs five main functions: maintains homeostasis, coordinates body systems, responds to external stimuli, facilitates understanding and response to sensory inputs, and maintains consciousness

Components of the Nervous System

• Central nervous system (CNS): brain and spinal cord
• Peripheral nervous system (PNS): all other nerves in the body

The Brain

Cerebrum

• Responsible for thinking, learning, and interpreting sensory information
• Divided into right and left hemispheres:
  • Right hemisphere: controls left side of the body, associated with creative functions
  • Left hemisphere: controls right side of the body, associated with logical and reasoning functions

Cerebellum

• Located behind and under the cerebrum
• Maintains balance and coordination

Brain Stem

• Connects brain to spinal cord
• Coordinates involuntary muscle movements (e.g. heartbeat, breathing)

Neurons: Specialized Cells

• Carries messages (impulses) through the nervous system
• Main parts of a neuron:
  • Cell body: main part of the cell containing the nucleus
  • Dendrites: receive incoming messages
  • Axon: carries outgoing messages

Types of Neurons

• Sensory neurons: receive information and send impulses to spinal cord and brain
• Motor neurons: relay impulses from brain or spinal cord to body parts
• Interneurons: relay impulses between sensory and motor neurons

Learn about the five functions of the nervous system, including maintaining homeostasis, responding to stimuli, and controlling learning and memory.