key terms
Autonomic nervous system
Controls involuntary actions like heartbeat, breathing, and digestion.
Cerebrum
The largest part of the brain; responsible for thinking, memory, senses, and voluntary movement.
Midbrain
Part of the brainstem that controls eye movements and some reflexes.
Peripheral nervous system
All nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
Thalamus
Relay center of the brain that sends sensory signals to the cerebrum.
Brain
The main control center of the nervous system that processes information and directs body functions.
Diencephalon
Section of the brain that includes the thalamus and hypothalamus; controls emotions and sensory pathways.
Nerves
Bundles of nerve fibers that carry messages between the brain/spinal cord and the rest of the body.
Pons
Part of the brainstem that helps regulate breathing and connects parts of the brain.
Ventricles
Cavities in the brain that contain and produce cerebrospinal fluid.
Central nervous system
Made up of the brain and spinal cord; controls the body’s activities.
Hypothalamus
Regulates body temperature, appetite, sleep, water balance, and controls the pituitary gland.
Nervous system
Body system that sends and receives messages to control all body activities.
Somatic nervous system
Controls voluntary movements and sends sensory information to the CNS.
Cerebellum
Part of the brain that controls balance, coordination, and muscle movement.
Medulla oblongata
Lowest part of the brainstem; controls vital functions like breathing and heart rate.
Neuron
A nerve cell that sends and receives electrical and chemical signals
Spinal cord
Nerve pathway that carries messages to and from the brain and controls reflexes
Cerebrospinal fluid
Clear fluid that protects, cushions, and nourishes the brain and spinal cord.
Meninges
Three protective layers that cover the brain and spinal cord.
Parasympathetic
Part of the autonomic system that calms the body and helps it rest and digest.
Sympathetic
Part of the autonomic system that prepares the body for stress (“fight-or-flight”).