Nervous system

• What is the two main functions of the nervous system?

  1 . Collect, process and respond to information in the environment

  2 . Co-ordinate the working of different organs and cells
• What two sub-systems is the nervous system divided into?

  Central nervous system (CNS)

  Peripheral nervous system (PNS)
• The CNS is made up of the brain and spinal cord
• The brain is the centre of all conscious awareness
• What is the brain's outer layer known as?

  Cerebral cortex
• The brain is divided into two hemispheres
• The spinal cord is an extension of the brain
• What is the function of the spinal cord in the CNS?

  Passes messages to and from the brain and connects nerves to the PNS; also responsible for reflex actions
• The PNS transmits messages via millions of neurons to and from the CNS
• What is the PNS sub-divided into?

  Autonomic nervous system (ANS)

  Somatic nervous system (SNS)
• What is the function of the autonomic nervous system?

  Governs vital functions in the body; breathing, heart rate, etc.
• What is the function of the somatic nervous system?

  Governs muscle movement and receives information from sensory receptors