The Nervous System

• The nervous system is a body wide system of nerve cells that collect information in from the world , processes this information and then takes action by directing body organs and muscles via the transmission of electrochemical messages.
• What is the nervous system composed of?

  The nervous system is composed of the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system.
• What is the central nervous system?

  The central nervous system is made up of the brain and the spinal cord. It works together with the peripheral nervous system, the peripheral nervous system transfers events from the environment to the central nervous system and then the central nervous system will tell the peripheral nervous system how to react.
• What is the peripheral nervous system?

  The peripheral nervous system transmits messages via millions of neurons to and from the central nervous system. The peripheral nervous system transfers events from the environment to the central nervous system and then the central nervous system will tell the peripheral nervous system how to react.
• What is the spinal cord?

  The spinal cord is an extension of the brain. It passes messages to and from the brain while also connecting nerves to the peripheral nervous system. Additionally, it is responsible for reflex actions.
• Describe the brain.

  The brain has an outer layer called the cerebral cortex, this layer is only found in mammals and is highly developed in humans. The brain is also divided into two hemispheres, with each one controlling the opposite side of the body. It is responsible for higher cognitive functions like emotions
• What is the role of the autonomic nervous system?

  The autonomic nervous system governs vital functions like breathing, heart rate and digestion. It can be described as a unconscious decision maker.
• What is the role of the somatic nervous system?

  The somatic nervous system governs muscle movements and receives information from sensory receptors. It can be described as a conscious decision maker.
• What is the autonomic nervous system composed of?

  The autonomic nervous system is composed of the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system.
• What is the sympathetic nervous system?

  The sympathetic nervous system increases bodily activities, releases noradrenaline and plays a role in the "fight or flight" response. E.g. increases heart rate, sweating, etc.
• What is the parasympathetic nervous system?

  The parasympathetic nervous system decreases bodily activities recovering the body to the resting state. E.g. decreases heart rate, sweating, etc.
• Fill in this diagram:

  A) Nervous system

  B) Central nervous system

  C) Peripheral nervous system

  D) Spinal cord

  E) Brain

  F) Somatic nervous system

  G) autonomic nervous system

  H) Sympathetic nervous system

  I) Parasympathetic nervous system