Unraveling the Wonders of the Nervous System

Unraveling the Wonders of the Nervous System

Learning Objective

Understand the structure and function of the nervous system.

What do you already know about the nervous system?

What is the Nervous System?

The nervous system is the body's communication network, consisting of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

Parts of the Nervous System

Central Nervous System (CNS) includes the brain and spinal cord. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) includes all the nerves outside the CNS.

Neurons: Building Blocks of the Nervous System

Neurons are specialized cells that transmit information through electrical and chemical signals.

How Neurons Communicate

Neurons communicate through synapses, where chemical signals called neurotransmitters are released to transmit information.

Sensory and Motor Neurons

Sensory neurons carry signals from the sensory organs to the CNS, while motor neurons carry signals from the CNS to the muscles and glands.

Reflex Arc: A Rapid Response

The reflex arc is an automatic response to a stimulus, bypassing the brain for a quicker reaction.

The Brain: Control Center of the Nervous System

The brain interprets and processes information, and controls various bodily functions.

Role of the Spinal Cord

The spinal cord transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body, and also coordinates reflexes.

Recap and Review

Summarize the key points about the structure and function of the nervous system.