Three basic functions of the nervous system?

1. Receive sensory input from our internal and external environments 2. Process the input 3. Respond to stimuli

The Central Nervous System is composed of?

Brain & Spinal Cord

What is homeostasis?

The process by which an organism maintains a balanced, stable internal environment despite changing conditions externally

What does the Brain do?

Coordinates homeostasis Interprets/processes the information that is transmitted through the senses

What does the Spinal Cord do?

Passes sensory and motor information between the brain and other parts of the body ALL sensory/motor nerves located below the neck must pass through the spinal cord on way to the brain

Cerebellum function?

Organizes motor function being sent to muscles to make movements smooth/coordinated Controls balance & posture

Cerebrum function?

Divided into two hemispheres, center of Human Consciousness including Memory, Decisions and Senses.

Corpus Callosum function?

Acts as a bridge between the two hemispheres, responsible for transferring information between the two.

Thalamus function?

Sensory relay station, receives impulses from most sensory neurons entering the brain and directs impulses to parts of the cortex where they are interpreted

Hypothalamus function?

Controls hunger, thirst, rage Regulates body temp, water balance, blood pressure Connects nervous & endocrine systems

Midbrain function?

Between cerebrum and pons Involved in sight & hearing

Pons function?

Enlargement of the brain stem Forms continuous link with midbrain Provides link between cerebral cortex and cerebellum

Medulla Oblongata function?

Connects to spinal cord Regulates heartbeat, respiration, blood pressure, swallowing/vomiting

What are Meninges?

Series of membranes that surround/protect the Central Nervous system Provides blood-brain barrier