Peripheral Nervous System

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is the network of nerves that connects the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. It is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the body to the central nervous system and for transmitting motor commands from the central nervous system to the muscles and glands. The PNS is divided into two main parts: the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.

Somatic Nervous System

The somatic nervous system is responsible for voluntary movements and transmits sensory information to the central nervous system. It consists of sensory neurons that carry information from the body's sensory receptors to the central nervous system, and motor neurons that carry commands from the central nervous system to the skeletal muscles to produce voluntary movements.

Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, and glandular secretions. It is further divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the body's "fight or flight" response. It increases heart rate, dilates airways, and redirects blood flow to the muscles in response to stress or danger.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" response. It slows heart rate, constricts airways, and promotes digestion and energy conservation.

Study Guide

1. What is the main function of the peripheral nervous system?
2. What are the two main divisions of the peripheral nervous system?
3. Describe the functions of the somatic nervous system.
4. What are the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system and their respective functions?
5. Explain the roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems in the body.

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