PDF Notes: Nervous system

What is the primary function of the nervous system?

Controls and communicates throughout the body.

What are the two principal parts of the nervous system?

Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).

How does the sensory nervous system function?

Conveys information to the CNS.

What distinguishes somatic motor from autonomic motor?

Somatic is voluntary; autonomic is involuntary.

What role do neurons play in the nervous system?

Transmit electrical signals.

What is the significance of the axon in a neuron?

Conducts nerve impulses away from the cell body.

What happens to neurons as they age?

They lose the ability to divide.

What is the function of dendrites?

Receive incoming messages towards the cell body.

What is the cytoplasm of a neuron cell body called?

Perikaryon.

How does the CNS maintain its structure?

Neurons are organized topographically.

What are neuroglia?

Supporting cells in the nervous system.

What is the role of neurotransmitters?

Facilitate communication between neurons.

What is the axon hillock?

The region where the axon begins.

What is the function of the axon terminals?

Release neurotransmitters to communicate with other cells.

What is the difference between visceral sensory and somatic sensory?

Visceral is not consciously perceived; somatic is.

What is the axoplasm?

Cytoplasm of the axon.