What are the main anatomical divisions of the nervous system?

The nervous system is divided anatomically into two main parts: Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS consists of peripheral nerves, ganglia, and the autonomic nervous system.

How is the nervous system divided functionally?

Functionally, it is organized into Afferent (Sensory) Division, which transmits sensory input to the CNS, and Efferent (Motor) Division, which transmits motor output from the CNS to effectors like muscles and glands. The efferent division further splits into somatic and autonomic nervous systems.

What are the key functions of the nervous system?

The nervous system acts as the body's master control system, primarily responsible for receiving stimuli, integrating sensory information, initiating motor commands, and supporting higher functions like memory and learning.

What is the difference between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements via skeletal muscles, while the autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary actions of visceral organs, such as cardiac and smooth muscle function, without conscious control.

What components make up the peripheral nervous system?

The PNS includes peripheral nerves like cranial and spinal nerves, ganglia, and the autonomic nervous system with its sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.

What are the three fundamental processes involved in nervous activity?

All nervous activity involves three basic steps: Reception (detecting stimuli), Integration (processing information), and Response (initiating actions via effectors).

How does the autonomic nervous system function?

The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary actions, controlling cardiac muscle, smooth muscle, and glandular function without conscious control, and is divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.

Nervous System – CNS, PNS & Autonomic Divisions

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