Nervous System Basics
What are the two main parts of the nervous system?
The central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
How many lobes make up the cerebral cortex?
Four main lobes: frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital.
How many cranial nerves exist in the brain?
What is the difference between dorsal and ventral roots of the spinal cord?
Dorsal= Sensory Input
Ventral= Motor Input
Name one structure visible on the ventral surface of the brainstem.
Pyramids
What are the three subdivisions of the CNS?
The cerebral hemispheres, brainstem, and spinal cord.
What is the function of the cerebellum?
It coordinates movement, balance, and posture.
Which cranial nerves are used in speech production?
CN V, CN VII, CN IX, CN X, and CN XII
Where are sensory neuron cell bodies located?
Dorsal root ganglie
Name one structure visible on the dorsal surface of the brainstem?
Superior or inferior colliculi
Which side of the brain controls language and logic?
The left hemisphere.
Which lobe is responsible for hearing and language comprehension?
The temporal lobe.
Which cranial nerves are involved in swallowing?
CN V, CN VII, CN IX, CN X, CN XII
Where are motor neuron cell bodies located?
Ventral horn of the spinal cord
Name one motor nucleus involved in speech or swallowing
Hypoglossal nucleus
What are the three divisions of the autonomic nervous system?
Sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric systems.
What structure connects the two cerebral hemispheres?
The corpus callosum.
Which cranial nerve's function is for taste on the anterior 2/3 of the tongue and facial movements?
CN VII
What are glial cells?
Support cells that nourish, protect, and asist neurons. They make myelin and clean waste.
What role does the meninges' subarachnoid space play in protecting the brain?
It holds cerebrospinal fluid which cushions the brain and helps remove waste
What is the main function of the enteric nervous system?
It regulates digestion, peristalsis, and secretion in the gastrointestinal tract.
What is the insula’s role in speech and swallowing?
It helps control speaking, breathing, and swallowing.
What is the function of the vagus nerve (CN X)?
Processes sensory input for the parasympathetic system to influence the fight or flight response.
Name the main anatomical parts of a neuron.
Dendrites, cell body, axon, myelin sheath, axon terminals.
Why is the middle cerebral artery so important for speech and language?
Supplies Broca's area, Wernicke's area, auditory cortex, and speech motor areas.