THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
Information is passed through the
body rapidly through specialised cells (nerve cells or neurons).
These transmit information as an electrical impulse.
Nerves are arranged in the body in the :
Central Nervous System (CNS) - regulation and
control - includes the brain and spinal cord
Peripheral Nervous System - transmission of information
There are three sorts of neurons :
Sensory Neurons - receptors
Interneurons - transmit information
Effector Neurons - stimulate organs which generate
a response
Information is transmitted between neurons across a tiny gap called a synapse.
Neurotransmitters are chemicals which carry the nerve impulse across the
synapse.
Control in the body is maintained by negative feedback systems,
where the response generated serves to lessen the original stimulus.
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© 2004 Dr Peter Darben