Central Nervous System (CNS)
- Comprises the brain and spinal cord.
- Controls and coordinates the body's activities, receiving and processing sensory information and sending commands to muscles and organs.
- Protected by the skull and vertebrae.
- Consists of:
- Brain: Main control center, responsible for cognition, emotions, memories, and many bodily functions.
- Spinal cord: Connects the brain to the rest of the body, transmitting sensory information and motor commands.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
- Consists of all nerve fibers and structures that extend beyond the CNS.
- Serves as a communication network, relaying information between the CNS and the rest of the body.
- Classified into:
Somatic Nervous System (SNS)
- Controls voluntary movements, such as walking, talking, and manipulating objects.
- Consists of:
- Sensory nerves: Carry sensory information from the body to the CNS.
- Motor nerves: Transmit commands from the CNS to muscles, controlling their contraction.
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
- Regulates involuntary bodily functions, such as digestion, heart rate, and breathing.
- Divided into two branches:
- Sympathetic nervous system: Prepares the body for fight-or-flight responses, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and dilation of airways.
- Parasympathetic nervous system: Promotes relaxation and decreases bodily functions, such as slowing heart rate and stimulating digestion.
Key Differences:
- Location: CNS is inside the skull and vertebrae, while PNS extends beyond it.
- Function: CNS controls and coordinates bodily activities, while PNS relays information between the CNS and the body's tissues.
- Components: CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while PNS includes nerves, ganglia, and sensory receptors.
- Voluntary vs. Involuntary Control: SNS controls voluntary movements, while ANS regulates involuntary functions.