Spinal Cord Functions and Structures

This video explores the anatomy and physiology of the spinal cord, focusing on its cross-section. It covers the differences between white and gray matter, the role of myelinated and unmyelinated neurons, and the pathways of sensory and motor signals. The video also explains reflex arcs and the function of ascending and descending tracks, providing a comprehensive understanding of spinal cord function.

What is the primary function of the spinal nerves?

• To produce cerebrospinal fluid

• To protect the spinal cord from injury

• To connect the spinal cord to the peripheral nervous system

• To transmit signals between the brain and the spinal cord

Which type of nervous tissue in the spinal cord contains myelinated neurons?

• Neither gray nor white matter

• Both gray and white matter

• White matter

• Gray matter

What is the primary difference between white matter and gray matter in the spinal cord?

• White matter is responsible for reflex actions, while gray matter is not

• White matter contains myelinated neurons, while gray matter contains unmyelinated neurons

• White matter is located centrally, while gray matter is peripheral

• White matter contains unmyelinated neurons, while gray matter contains myelinated neurons

What is the role of the central canal in the spinal cord?

• To transmit signals to the brain

• To protect the spinal cord

• To house the spinal nerves

• To circulate cerebrospinal fluid

In a reflex arc, what is the function of the interneuron?

• To send signals to the brain

• To protect the spinal cord

• To connect sensory and motor neurons

• To produce myelin

Which part of the spinal cord is responsible for sending signals to the muscles?

• Ventral root

• Dorsal root

• Central canal

• Dorsal horn

What is the function of the dorsal root ganglion?

• To protect the spinal cord

• To produce cerebrospinal fluid

• To transmit motor signals to the muscles

• To house the cell bodies of sensory neurons

What happens when a sensory signal reaches the spinal cord?

• It is immediately sent to the brain

• It synapses with an interneuron

• It is converted into a motor signal

• It is stored in the dorsal root ganglion

How do signals travel from the brain to the body in the spinal cord?

• Through descending tracks

• Through the central canal

• Through ascending tracks

• Through the dorsal root

Where are the ascending tracks located in the spinal cord?

• In the dorsal funiculus and lateral funiculus

• In the ventral funiculus and central canal

• In the dorsal horn and ventral horn

• In the central canal and dorsal root