17.1 Nervous Tissue
The nervous system contains cells called neurons, which are specialized to carry nerve impulses.A nerve impulse is an electrochemical change that travels along the length of a neuron axon.Transmission of signals between neurons is dependent on neurotransmitter molecules.
1. What are two important functions of the myelin sheath surrounding a neuron? Answer2. Resting potential of a neuron is caused by what phenomenon? Answer
17.2 The Central Nervous System
The central nervous system is made up of the spinal cord and the brain.
The spinal cord transmits messages to and from the brain and coordinates reflex responses.
The parts of the brain are specialized for particular functions.
The cerebral cortex contains motor areas, sensory areas, and association areas that communicate with each other.
The reticular formation contains fibers that arouse the brain when they are active and account for sleep when they are inactive.
3. What are the two primary functions of the spinal cord? Answer
4. What portion of the brain regulates many of the body's basic metabolic functions by controlling the pituitary gland? Answer
17.3 The Limbic System and Higher Mental Functions
The limbic system contains cortical and subcortical areas that are involved in higher mental functions and emotional responses.Long-term memory depends upon association areas that are in contact with the limbic system.Particular areas in the left hemisphere are involved in language and speech.
5. What two structures within the limbic system are essential for learning and memory? Answer 6. How do semantic memory and episodic memory differ? Answer
17.4 The Peripheral Nervous System The peripheral nervous system contains nerves that conduct nerve impulses toward and away from the central nervous system.
7. What are the two main branches of the peripheral nervous system and what is the primary function of each? Answer8. Under what circumstances are the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic system active? Answer
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