The Nervous System Quiz

Nervous System Overview

• The central nervous system (CNS) is the main integration system, consisting of the brain and spinal cord.
• The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body.

Receptors and System Structure

• Sensory receptors pick up information for the CNS from the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
• The PNS consists of all neural tissue outside the brain and spinal cord, including sensory and motor neurons.

Neurons and their Functions

• The functional unit of the nervous system is the neuron, responsible for transmitting signals.
• Motor neurons control voluntary movement and regulate skeletal muscles.

Brain Functions and Regions

• The hypothalamus regulates heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure.
• The limbic system is crucial for learning, memory, and activity planning.
• The cerebellum maintains muscle tone, posture, and balance.
• The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information and plays a role in consciousness.

Nervous System Responses and Dynamics

• A brief change in electrical conditions at a neuron's membrane is called an action potential.
• Reflexes are automatic responses to stimuli, processed by the spinal cord to facilitate quick reactions.

Autonomic Nervous System Divisions

• The sympathetic division of the ANS is responsible for 'fight or flight' responses.
• The parasympathetic nervous system promotes 'rest and digest' functions, calming the body down after stress.

Neuroglia and Support

• Neuroglia, or glial cells, support and protect neurons, playing essential roles in maintaining the nervous tissue environment.
• The primary function of interneurons is to relay signals between sensory and motor neurons, facilitating communication within the CNS.

Sensory and Motor Neurons

• Sensory neurons have a primary function of transmitting sensory information to the CNS.
• Efferent divisions of the PNS send signals from the CNS to muscles and glands, executing motor responses.

Hormonal Regulation

• The hypothalamus also secretes hormones that control the pituitary gland and help regulate circadian rhythms, integrating endocrine and nervous system functions.

Summary of Key Functions

• The primary function of the sympathetic nervous system is to prepare the body for stressful situations.
• Neuroglia are crucial for maintaining homeostasis in nervous tissue, supporting neuronal functions.
• The cerebellum's primary function is coordinating voluntary movements and maintaining balance.