Anatomy and Physiology: Nervous System Study Guide
1. Introduction to the Nervous System
The nervous system is the master communication and coordination system of the body. It
consists of two main divisions:
Central Nervous System (CNS): Includes the brain and spinal cord.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Comprises all other neural elements, including nerves and
ganglia.
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2. Neurons and Nerve Impulses
Neurons are the basic structural units of the nervous system, specialized to transmit signals.
Structure: Neurons consist of a cell body, dendrites, axon, myelin sheath, and synaptic
terminals.
Types: Sensory neurons, motor neurons, and interneurons.
Nerve Impulse Process:
1. Resting potential: Neuron is inactive.
2. Action potential: Electrical signal travels down the axon.
3. Synaptic transmission: Neurotransmitters relay signals to the next neuron.
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3. Central Nervous System (CNS)
The CNS processes and coordinates information:
, Brain:
Cerebrum: Controls higher brain functions like thought and action.
Cerebellum: Regulates balance and coordination.
Brainstem: Includes the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata, controlling basic life functions.
Spinal Cord:
Transmits signals between the brain and the body.
Plays a role in reflex actions.
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4. Detailed Anatomy of the Brain
The brain is the command center of the nervous system, responsible for processing sensory
information and coordinating responses.
Cerebrum: Largest part, responsible for higher brain functions like thought, memory, and
voluntary movement.
Cerebellum: Coordinates movement, balance, and posture.
Brainstem: Controls vital functions like breathing, heart rate, and digestion.
Lobes of the Brain:
Frontal Lobe: Decision-making, problem-solving, and voluntary movements.
Parietal Lobe: Processes sensory information like touch and spatial orientation.
Temporal Lobe: Involved in memory and auditory processing.
Occipital Lobe: Responsible for visual processing.
1. Introduction to the Nervous System
The nervous system is the master communication and coordination system of the body. It
consists of two main divisions:
Central Nervous System (CNS): Includes the brain and spinal cord.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Comprises all other neural elements, including nerves and
ganglia.
---
2. Neurons and Nerve Impulses
Neurons are the basic structural units of the nervous system, specialized to transmit signals.
Structure: Neurons consist of a cell body, dendrites, axon, myelin sheath, and synaptic
terminals.
Types: Sensory neurons, motor neurons, and interneurons.
Nerve Impulse Process:
1. Resting potential: Neuron is inactive.
2. Action potential: Electrical signal travels down the axon.
3. Synaptic transmission: Neurotransmitters relay signals to the next neuron.
---
3. Central Nervous System (CNS)
The CNS processes and coordinates information:
, Brain:
Cerebrum: Controls higher brain functions like thought and action.
Cerebellum: Regulates balance and coordination.
Brainstem: Includes the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata, controlling basic life functions.
Spinal Cord:
Transmits signals between the brain and the body.
Plays a role in reflex actions.
---
4. Detailed Anatomy of the Brain
The brain is the command center of the nervous system, responsible for processing sensory
information and coordinating responses.
Cerebrum: Largest part, responsible for higher brain functions like thought, memory, and
voluntary movement.
Cerebellum: Coordinates movement, balance, and posture.
Brainstem: Controls vital functions like breathing, heart rate, and digestion.
Lobes of the Brain:
Frontal Lobe: Decision-making, problem-solving, and voluntary movements.
Parietal Lobe: Processes sensory information like touch and spatial orientation.
Temporal Lobe: Involved in memory and auditory processing.
Occipital Lobe: Responsible for visual processing.
