The Nervous System Overview

The Nervous System

• The nervous system is a complex network of nerves and cells that carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord to various parts of the body.
• It connects all body parts, transmitting signals between them.
• It's a system of cells, tissues, and organs that regulates the body's responses to internal and external stimuli.
• Every part of the nervous system plays a specific role.

Major Divisions of the Nervous System

• Central Nervous System (CNS): The main processing center of the nervous system.
  • Consists of the brain and spinal cord.
• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Connects the CNS to organs and limbs.
  • Has two main divisions: somatic and autonomic.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

• Brain: Organ located within the skull, acting as the organizer and distributor of information for the body.
  • Contains three main parts:
    • Cerebrum: The large, upper part of the brain responsible for activity and thought.
    • Cerebellum: Located below the cerebrum, controlling posture, balance, coordination.
    • Brain stem: Connects the brain to the spinal cord, controlling automatic functions like breathing, digestion, heart rate and blood pressure.
• Spinal cord: Acts as a channel for signals between the brain and the majority of the body parts. It controls some simple musculoskeletal reflexes.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

• Somatic Nervous System: Associated with voluntary control of body movements.
  • Includes:
    • Spinal nerves: Carry motor and sensory signals between the spinal cord and the body.
    • Cranial nerves: Carry information to and from the brain stem.
• Autonomic Nervous System: Associated with involuntary control of body movements.
  • Includes two subdivisions:
    • Sympathetic Nervous System: Activated during stress or dynamic situations, increases heart rate, breathing, pupil dilation, and sweating.
    • Parasympathetic Nervous System: Maintains body functions and restores the body to a normal or relaxed state.

This quiz explores the structure and functions of the nervous system, including its major divisions, the central nervous system (CNS), and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Understand how these systems interact to regulate bodily responses to various stimuli. Test your knowledge on key components such as the brain and spinal cord.