Coordination (Nervous & Endocrine Systems)
Nervous System
- Neurons: functional units; consist of dendrites, cell body, axon, myelin sheath.
- Types: sensory, motor, and relay neurons.
- Reflex arc: pathway of involuntary response; receptor → sensory neuron → CNS → motor neuron → effector.
- Central nervous system (CNS): brain and spinal cord.
- Peripheral nervous system (PNS): all nerves outside CNS.
Endocrine System
- Consists of glands that secrete hormones into the blood.
- Major glands: pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, ovaries/testes.
- Hormones regulate growth, metabolism, reproduction, and homeostasis.
- Examples: insulin (pancreas) lowers blood glucose, glucagon raises it; adrenaline (adrenal gland) prepares body for fight or flight.
Coordination between Nervous and Endocrine Systems
- Nervous system provides rapid responses; endocrine system provides slower but longer-lasting effects.
- Both work together to maintain homeostasis (e.g., regulation of blood sugar and water balance).
- Hypothalamus links nervous and endocrine systems.
Practice Questions
- Describe the structure and function of a neuron. (5 marks)
- Explain the pathway of a reflex arc. (4 marks)
- List major endocrine glands and state the function of one hormone each. (6 marks)
- Compare nervous and endocrine coordination in terms of speed and duration. (4 marks)
- Short answer: Which gland links the nervous and endocrine systems? (1 mark)
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