Ch. 7.6 Nervous System
brain
a mass of nerve tissue well protected ne by membranes and the cranium, or skull.
diencephalon
the section located between the cerebrum and midbrain.
Nerves
Bundles of fibers that carry messages (impulses) to and from the CNS.
Pons
Connects parts of the brain; assists with breathing, chewing, and tasting.
Ventricles
The four hollow spaces in the brain that produce and circulate CSF.
central nervous system
consists of the brain and spinal cord.
hypothalamus
regulates and controls the autonomic nervous system, temperature, appetite, water balance, sleep, and blood vessel constriction
Nervous System
The body's complex communication system that coordinates all activities.
Somatic Nervous System
Controls voluntary actions (like moving muscles) and relays sensory input.
Autonomic Nervous System
Controls involuntary body actions (like heart rate, breathing, and digestion).
cerebellum
the section below the back of the cerebrum
medulla oblongata
the lowest part of the brainstem
Neuron
The basic nerve cell that transmits impulses.
Spinal Cord
The main pathway for messages between the brain and the rest of the body; controls reflexes..
cerebrospinal fluid
The ventricles are filled with a clear, colorless fluid
Meninges
The three protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
Parasympathetic
The "rest and digest" system; calms the body down after stress.
Sympathetic
The "fight or flight" system; prepares the body for action/emergency
cerebrum
the largest and highest section of the brain
Midbrain
Connects brain parts; controls some eye and hearing reflexes.
Peripheral Nervous System
The nerves extending from the CNS to the rest of the body.
Thalamus
A relay station that directs sensory signals to the correct area of the cerebrum..