Brain Basics
What is the nervous system's main job?
To send messages between the brain and body
What do nerves carry around your body?
Electrical messages (signals).
What is a reflex?
An automatic reaction that happens without thinking.
Why is sleep important for your brain?
It helps your brain rest and recharge.
How many neurons does your brain have (about)?
About 86 billion.
What are the 3 main parts of the nervous system?
Brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
What are the two types of nerves?
Sensory nerves and motor nerves.
Which part of the nervous system controls reflexes?
The spinal cord.
Name one healthy food that’s good for your brain.
Fish, fruits, or vegetables.
What is the brain’s main communication language?
Electricity and chemicals.
What part of the brain helps you think and learn?
The cerebrum.
How fast can messages travel in your nervous system?
Up to about 250 miles per hour!
What’s an example of a reflex?
Pulling your hand away from something hot.
What kind of activity helps keep your brain strong?
Exercise or learning new things.
What’s faster — a race car or a brain signal?
A brain signal!
What part of the brain helps you balance?
The cerebellum.
What chemicals help messages jump between neurons?
Neurotransmitters.
Why are reflexes important?
They protect your body from harm.
What part of the brain helps you remember things?
The hippocampus.
True or False: Your brain stops working when you sleep.
False! It stays active.
What part of the brain controls breathing and heartbeat?
The brainstem.
What are the tiny gaps between neurons called?
Synapses.
What would happen if your spinal cord got injured?
Messages might not travel properly to or from the brain.
How can learning new things improve your brain?
It builds new connections between neurons.
What’s one fun thing your brain helps you do every day?
laugh, play, think, learn, etc.