IB Biology: C3.1-Input to the Spinal Cord and Brain

Front

What is the role of a receptor in the nervous system?

Back

A receptor starts the neural pathway for the transfer of information to the nervous system and is capable of transduction, converting physical stimuli into electrical signals or action potentials.

Front

What is transduction in the context of neural pathways?

Back

Transduction is the conversion of physical stimuli into electrical signals or action potentials by receptors.

Front

Are receptors specialized for specific types of stimuli?

Back

Yes, each type of receptor is specialized for transducing one specific type of physical stimulus.

Front

How are signals from receptors transmitted to the central nervous system?

Back

Signals from receptors and nerve endings are passed to sensory neurons, which carry the impulses or signals to the central nervous system.

Front

What determines the length of axons in sensory neurons?

Back

The length of axons in sensory neurons varies depending on the distance between the receptor cell and the brain or spinal cord.

Front

Where does the brain receive signals from?

Back

The brain (cerebral hemispheres) receives all signals from the main sense organs located in the head.

Front

Where does the spinal cord receive signals from?

Back

The spinal cord receives signals from other organs of the body such as the skin and muscles.

Front

How do axons of sensory neurons enter the spinal cord or brain?

Back

Axons of sensory neurons enter the spinal cord through one of the 31 pairs of spinal nerves or the brain by one of the 12 pairs of cranial nerves.