Structure of the Nervous System

The nervous system is divided into two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).

Central Nervous System (CNS)

- The CNS consists of the brain and the spinal cord. - The brain is the control center of the nervous system and is responsible for processing information and coordinating the body's activities. - The spinal cord is a long, thin, tubular bundle of nervous tissue that extends from the brain and is enclosed in the vertebral column. It serves as a pathway for nerve impulses to travel to and from the brain.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

- The PNS consists of all the nerves outside of the CNS. - It is further divided into the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system. - The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements and transmits sensory information to the CNS. - The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, digestion, and breathing.

Function of the Nervous System

The nervous system performs several important functions, including: - Sensory input: Gathering information from sensory receptors that detect changes inside and outside the body. - Integration: Processing and interpreting the sensory input to make decisions. - Motor output: Responding to the integrated stimuli by activating muscles or glands.

Neurons and Nerves

- Neurons are the basic building blocks of the nervous system. They are specialized cells that transmit information through electrical and chemical signals. - Nerves are bundles of nerve fibers (axons) that transmit signals between the central nervous system and the rest of the body.