nervous system

• The nervous system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that coordinate and control various physiological functions in the body. It is divided into two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS consists of nerves and ganglia outside the CNS. The nervous system functions to transmit information through electrical impulses, allowing the body to respond to internal and external stimuli.
• The brain is the central control center of the nervous system. It processes sensory information, initiates responses, and coordinates various bodily functions. Different regions of the brain are responsible for specific functions such as motor control, sensory perception, memory, and emotions.
• The spinal cord serves as a communication pathway between the brain and the rest of the body. It is responsible for reflex actions and serves as the conduit for nerve signals traveling to and from the brain.
• Sensory neurons transmit information from sensory receptors (e.g., in skin, eyes, ears) to the CNS. They carry signals related to touch, pain, temperature, and other sensory stimuli.
• Motor neurons convey signals from the CNS to muscles and glands, directing muscle movements and glandular secretion. The motor neurons controlling voluntary movements are called somatic motor neurons, while those regulating involuntary functions are called autonomic motor neurons.
• Relay neurons receive signals from sensory neurons and process this information. They play a crucial role in integrating and interpreting sensory input, determining appropriate responses.
• Motor neurons convey signals from the CNS to muscles and glands, directing muscle movements and glandular secretion. The motor neurons controlling voluntary movements are called somatic motor neurons, while those regulating involuntary functions are called autonomic motor neurons.
• the steps in which an electrical impulse travels throughout the body

  1. Sensory receptors detect a stimulus (e.g., touch, light, sound).

  2. Sensory neurons transmit the signal as electrical impulses to the CNS.

  3. The brain processes and interprets the sensory information.

  4. If needed, the brain generates a response, and motor neurons transmit the response as electrical impulses to effectors (muscles or glands).

  5. Effectors carry out the response, resulting in a motor action or glandular secretion.