Nervous System Overview Quiz

The study of the microscopic structure of nervous cells.

A specialized cell of the nervous system.

A neuron with multiple dendrites and one axon.

Branched extensions of a neuron that receive signals.

The long extension of a neuron that transmits signals.

Astrocytes are star-shaped glial cells that provide structural and metabolic support for neurons and blood vessels in the central nervous system.

Oligodendrocytes are glial cells in the central nervous system that produce myelin sheaths, insulating coverings around axons, which allow for faster signal transmission.

Microglia are the immune cells of the central nervous system. They remove bacteria, debris, and damaged cells.

Ependymal cells line the cavities of the brain and spinal cord. They contribute to the production of cerebrospinal fluid and help control the flow of nutrients.

Gray matter is composed primarily of unmyelinated axons and neuronal cell bodies, while white matter is composed of myelinated axons. Gray matter is involved in processing information, while white matter facilitates communication between different areas of the brain.

The process of converting stimuli from the environment into nerve impulses, conducted by peripheral nerves.

The process of interpreting sensory information within the central nervous system, leading to thoughts, perceptions, and memories.

The process of sending signals from the central nervous system to effectors (muscles and glands) to produce a response.

The part of the nervous system that controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles.

The part of the nervous system that controls involuntary actions of smooth muscles, glands, and heart rate.

Three layered membranes protecting the brain and spinal cord. Dura mater (outermost), arachnoid mater (middle), and pia mater (innermost).

The largest part of the brain, responsible for higher-level functions like thinking, memory, and language.

A thick band of nerve fibers connecting the two hemispheres of the cerebrum, enabling communication between them.

Ridges or folds on the surface of the brain, increasing its surface area and complexity.

A bundle of nerve fibers connecting the cerebrum to the spinal cord, allowing communication between the brain and body.

The spinal cord has two main roles: conducting nerve impulses to and from the brain and controlling spinal reflexes.

Gray matter is the central part of the spinal cord, composed mostly of nerve cell bodies and dendrites, responsible for processing information.

White matter surrounds gray matter, made up of nerve fibers, facilitating communication between different parts of the nervous system.

Sensory nerves carry signals from the body to the brain, relaying information about senses.

Motor nerves carry signals from the brain to muscles and glands, controlling movement and bodily functions.

The control center of the nervous system, containing the brain and spinal cord. It receives, processes, and sends signals to the body.

The network of nerves that branch out from the CNS, connecting it to the rest of the body. It transmits signals to and from the CNS.

The 'fight or flight' response system. It prepares the body for stressful situations by increasing heart rate, breathing, and alertness.

The 'rest and digest' system. It helps the body return to a calm state after a stressful situation by slowing heart rate and promoting relaxation.

Nerve signals travel as electrical impulses along neurons. These impulses are generated by the movement of charged ions across the neuron's membrane.

Loss of movement can be due to damage to the nervous system, affecting the brain, spinal cord, or nerves. This can disrupt the signals needed for muscle function.