The Nervous System Overview

The main processing center of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

Organ within the skull that organizes and distributes information throughout the body.

The large, upper part of the brain responsible for activity and thought.

Part of the brain located under the cerebrum, controlling posture, balance, and coordination.

Connects the brain to the spinal cord and regulates automatic functions.

A channel for signals between the brain and the body; controls reflexes.

Connects the CNS to the organs and limbs.

Part of the PNS associated with voluntary body movements.

Basic unit of the nervous system specialized for carrying signals.

Root-like structures on a neuron that carry impulses toward the cell body.

Long fibers that carry impulses away from the neuron cell body.

Electrochemical signal that travels along neurons.

The gap between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released.

Any factor in the environment that triggers a nerve impulse.

An organism's reaction to a stimulus.

Transmit impulses from the brain to muscles or glands.

Transmit impulses from sensory receptors to the CNS.

Chemical released by a neuron to stimulate another impulse.

System of glands that secrete hormones to regulate body processes.

Chemicals released by endocrine glands that affect various body processes.

Gland at the base of the brain that controls other glands and growth.

Gland that regulates metabolism and calcium levels in bones.

Organ that regulates blood sugar levels through hormone release.

Glands that prepare the body for action and control stress response.

Male reproductive glands that produce sperm and hormones.

Female reproductive glands that produce eggs and hormones.

Controls thoughts, movements, reactions, and bodily functions.

The time between stimulus application and response detection.

Hormones that regulate sexual characteristics and reproduction.

The ability of the brain to change and adapt over time.

Combination of electrical charge and chemical reaction in nerve impulses.