The nervous system and sensory system are closely related but have distinct differences. Here are the differences and similarities between the two:
Differences:
1. Function: The nervous system is responsible for coordinating and controlling the activities of the body, including movement, thoughts, and behavior. It processes and integrates information from various sources. On the other hand, the sensory system is a subset of the nervous system and is specifically responsible for receiving and transmitting sensory information from the environment to the brain. It includes the sensory organs such as the eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and skin.
2. Components: The nervous system consists of the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which includes the nerves that connect the CNS to the rest of the body. The sensory system is a part of the PNS and includes the sensory receptors, nerves, and pathways that transmit sensory information to the CNS.
3. Types of information processed: The nervous system processes both sensory and motor information. It receives sensory input from the sensory system and sends motor commands to the muscles and organs. The sensory system, however, primarily processes sensory information from the environment, such as visual, auditory, olfactory, gustatory, and tactile stimuli.
Similarities:
1. Interconnectedness: The nervous system and sensory system are interconnected and work together to process and respond to stimuli. Sensory information is received by the sensory system, transmitted to the CNS, and then processed and integrated by the nervous system to generate appropriate responses.
2. Neuronal communication: Both systems rely on the transmission of electrical signals through neurons. Sensory receptors convert sensory stimuli into electrical signals, which are then transmitted through sensory nerves to the CNS. In the CNS, these signals are processed and integrated, and appropriate responses are generated and transmitted back through motor nerves to the muscles and organs.
3. Adaptation: Both systems exhibit the ability to adapt to changing stimuli. The sensory system can adapt to prolonged exposure to a stimulus, leading to a decreased response over time (e.g., habituation). Similarly, the nervous system can adapt its responses based on previous experiences and learning.
In summary, the nervous system and sensory system are closely intertwined, with the sensory system being a subset of the broader nervous system. While the nervous system controls and coordinates the body's activities, the sensory system specifically receives and transmits sensory information.