The Mammalian Nervous System: Your Body's Control Center

 

What is the Mammalian Nervous System?

The nervous system is your body’s control system, like the command center of a spaceship. It coordinates all the things your body does, from moving muscles to sensing heat or cold. It does this by sending electrical signals (called impulses) around the body.

 

The Nervous System: Key Parts

 

 

Part	What It Does
Central Nervous System (CNS)	Made up of the brain and spinal cord; processes information and makes decisions.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)	Consists of nerves outside the CNS; connects the CNS to the rest of the body.

Analogy:
The CNS is like the headquarters, while the PNS is the network of cables connecting it to the world.

 

How Does the Nervous System Work?

The nervous system:

1. Receives Information: Detects changes (stimuli) in the environment using sensory organs.
2. Processes Information: The CNS processes this information and decides what to do.
3. Responds: Sends signals to muscles or glands (effectors) to take action.

 

Roles of the Nervous System

Role	What It Does
Coordination	Ensures all body parts work together effectively.
Regulation	Keeps body functions running smoothly (e.g., breathing, digestion).

 

The Nervous System in Action: A Reflex Example

Imagine touching a hot stove. What happens?

1. Stimulus: Heat from the stove is detected by receptors in your skin.
2. Signal Transmission:
   • Sensory neurones carry the signal to the CNS.
   • The CNS processes the signal.
   • Motor neurones carry the response to your muscles.
3. Response: Your muscles pull your hand away quickly.