Key Terms
autonomic nervous system
The autonomic nervous system contains the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which work together to control involuntary body functions.
cerebrum
the largest and highest section of the brain. The outer part is arranged in folds, called convolutions, and separated into lobes.
midbrain
the section located below the cerebrum at the top of the brainstem.
peripheral nervous sytem
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of the nerves and has two divisions: the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.
thalamus
thalamus acts as a relay center and directs sensory impulses to the cerebrum
brain
The brain is a mass of nerve tissue well protected ne by membranes and the cranium
diencephalon
the section located between the cerebrum and midbrain.
nerves
nerves carry messages from all parts of the body to the brain and spinal cord.
pons
the section located below the midbrain and in the brainstem.
ventricles
The ventricles are filled with a clear, colorless fluid called cerebrospinal fluid.
central nervous system
The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord.
hypothalamus
The hypothalamus regulates and controls the autonomic nervous system, temperature, appetite, water balance, sleep, and blood vessel constriction
nervous system
The nervous system is a complex, highly organized system that coordinates all the activities of the body. This system enables the body to respond and adapt to changes that occur both inside and outside the body.
somatic nervous system
carries messages between the CNS and the body.
cerebellum
the section below the back of the cerebrum. It is responsible for muscle coordination, balance, posture, and muscle tone.
medulla oblongata
the lowest part of the brainstem. It connects with the spinal cord and is responsible for regulating heartbeat, respiration, swallowing, coughing, and blood pressure.
neuron
the neuron, or nerve cellIt consists of a cell body containing a nucleus; nerve fibers, called dendrites (which carry impulses toward the cell body); and a single nerve fiber, called an axon
spinal cord
The spinal cord is responsible for many reflex actions and for carrying sensory
cerebrospinal fluid
A clear, watery fluid that surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord
meninges
The meninges cover and protect the brain and spinal cord.
parasympathetic
keeps the sympathetic nervous system in check.
sympathetic
the sympathetic nervous system prepares the body to act by increasing heart rate, respiration,ase! and blood pressure, and by slowing activity in the digestive tract.