HHB 3.1 Divisions of the Nervous System and Neural Pathways

Front

What are the main parts of the Central Nervous System?

Back

Brain & Spinal Cord

Answer explanation

The Central Nervous System consists of the Brain and Spinal Cord. The Brain processes information, while the Spinal Cord transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

Front

The "fight or flight" response during threatening situations is the role of the:

Back

sympathetic nervous system

Answer explanation

The "fight or flight" response is primarily controlled by the sympathetic nervous system, which prepares the body to react to threats by increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, and redirecting blood flow to muscles.

Front

The part of the nervous system that consists of nerves that branch out from the CNS (central nervous system) and connect to other body parts

Back

Peripheral

Answer explanation

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of nerves that branch out from the central nervous system (CNS) and connect to other body parts.

Front

_____ neurons carry messages to the central nervous system

Back

Sensory

Answer explanation

Sensory neurons are responsible for carrying messages from sensory receptors to the central nervous system, allowing us to perceive stimuli. In contrast, motor neurons transmit signals from the CNS to muscles, and interneurons connect neurons within the CNS.

Front

The _____part of the autonomic nervous system is active during resting.

Back

parasympathetic

Answer explanation

The parasympathetic part of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for 'rest and digest' functions, promoting relaxation and energy conservation, making it the correct choice for activity during resting.

Front

_____ neurons carry messages away from the central nervous system.

Back

Motor

Answer explanation

Motor neurons are responsible for carrying messages away from the central nervous system to muscles and glands, enabling movement and response.

Front

The job of the somatic nervous system is to control breathing and the respiratory system.

Back

False

Answer explanation

The somatic nervous system primarily controls voluntary movements and sensory information, not breathing. Breathing is mainly regulated by the autonomic nervous system, making the statement false.

Front

Increased heart rate is caused by the

Back

Sympathetic Nervous System

Answer explanation

Increased heart rate is primarily regulated by the Sympathetic Nervous System, which activates the body's 'fight or flight' response, leading to an increase in heart rate. The Parasympathetic Nervous System, in contrast, promotes relaxation.

Front

What is on the end of an axon terminal?

Back

Synapse

Answer explanation

The end of an axon terminal is called a synapse. This is where the axon communicates with other neurons or target cells, facilitating the transmission of signals.

Front

What are the two main parts of the nervous system?

Back

Central nervous system (CNS), peripheral nervous system

Answer explanation

The nervous system is divided into two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system, which connects the CNS to the rest of the body.