The functions of the nervous system

The main role of the nervous system is to maintain homeostasis within the body. It does this via a large network of motor and sensory neurons that transmit chemical and electrical messages around the body.

The functions of the nervous system

Sensation

The body gathers information about the internal and external environment via sensory neutrons.

Integration (interpretation and analysis)

The brain interprets and analyses the information gathered by the bodies senses and decides how to respond.

Response

Responses to stimuli can be autonomic or somatic.

• Somatic (voluntary) – A conscious response i.e the decision to perform an exercise such as picking up a dumbbell. 
• Autonomic (involuntary) – An unconscious response i.e internal responses such as digestion, hormone secretion and heart rate. 

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