The __ nervous system includes all neurons in the body except those in the brain and spinal cord. a.) central b.) peripheral c.) somatic d.) secondary
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b) peripheral.
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) includes all neurons and nerve fibers located outside the brain and spinal cord. It connects the central nervous system (CNS), which consists of the brain and spinal cord, to the rest of the body. The primary function of the PNS is to transmit sensory information from the body to the CNS and to carry out motor commands from the CNS to the muscles, glands, and organs.
The PNS is divided into two main components: the somatic nervous system (SNS) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements and conveys sensory information from the skin, muscles, and joints to the CNS. It also sends motor commands to skeletal muscles, allowing voluntary actions. On the other hand, the autonomic nervous system is responsible for involuntary functions, such as regulating the activity of smooth muscles, heart muscles, and glands. The ANS is further divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, which work together to maintain the body’s homeostasis by controlling functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate.
The peripheral nervous system plays a crucial role in enabling communication between the brain and the body’s organs and tissues. Damage to components of the PNS, such as peripheral nerves, can result in sensory or motor deficits, leading to conditions like peripheral neuropathy.
In summary, the peripheral nervous system is vital for linking the central nervous system to the rest of the body, allowing the brain to control voluntary and involuntary actions while receiving sensory input.