Reflex Arc LG 16

Front

What is a reflex arc?

Back

A reflex arc is a neural pathway that controls a reflex action. It typically involves a sensory neuron, an interneuron, and an effector (muscle or gland).

Front

What is the role of the effector in a reflex arc?

Back

The effector is the muscle or organ that responds to the stimulus, carrying out the action of the reflex.

Front

What is an afferent neuron?

Back

An afferent neuron is a sensory neuron that carries signals from sensory receptors to the central nervous system.

Front

What is an efferent neuron?

Back

An efferent neuron is a motor neuron that carries signals away from the central nervous system to effectors (muscles or glands).

Front

What is the function of an interneuron in a reflex arc?

Back

An interneuron processes the information received from the afferent neuron and relays signals to the efferent neuron.

Front

What are autonomic reflexes?

Back

Autonomic reflexes are involuntary responses that control bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and pupil dilation.

Front

What are somatic reflexes?

Back

Somatic reflexes are voluntary responses that involve skeletal muscles, such as the knee-jerk reflex.

Front

What is the stimulus in a reflex arc?

Back

The stimulus is an external or internal change that triggers the reflex action, such as touching something hot.

Front

What is the pathway of a reflex arc?

Back

The pathway of a reflex arc typically follows this sequence: stimulus -> sensory neuron -> interneuron -> motor neuron -> effector.

Front

What is the knee-jerk reflex?

Back

The knee-jerk reflex is a somatic reflex that occurs when the patellar tendon is tapped, causing the leg to kick.