1. List the divisions of the nervous system and describe the characteristics of each.

- There are two divisions of nervous system; the central nervous system (CNS) and
peripheral nervous system (PNS).
- Central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, which occupy the dorsal
body cavity and act as the integrating and command centers of the nervous system.
They interpret incoming sensory information and issue instructions based on past
experience and current conditions.
- Peripheral nervous system includes all parts of the nervous system outside the CNS. It
consists mainly of the nerves that extend from the spinal cord and brain. These nerve
serve as communication lines. They link all parts of the body by carrying impulses from
the sensory receptors to the CNS and from the CNS to the appropriate gland or
muscles.
2. Differentiate between the somatic and the autonomic nervous system.
- Somatic nervous system regulates voluntary movements of skeletal muscles. Its
function are less complex than the autonomic nervous system. It needs only one
efferent neuron to transmit a signals. Whereas, autonomic nervous system regulates
involuntary movements of internal organs. Its functions are more complex compared to
somatic nervous system signaling pathways and it should have two neurons and
ganglia to transmit signal.
3. Compare and contrast the general functions of the CNS and the PNS.
- CNS and PNS communicate with each other to make sure our body parts, such as our
fingers, can send signals to the central nervous system for processing in our brains.
The CNS controls most functions of the body and mind. The brain is the center of our
thoughts, the interpreter of our external environment, and the origin of control over body
movement while the primary role of the PNS is to connect the central nervous system to
the organs, limbs, and skin to allow for complex movements and behaviors.
4. Where are the cell bodies of sensory, somatic motor, and autonomic neurons
located? What is a synapse?

-The cell bodies of the sensory neurons are located in the dorsal ganglia of the spinal
cord. Cell bodies of somatic motor neurons are located within the CNS, and their axons
extend through nerves to form connection with skeletal muscle cell. The autonomic
neurons are also located within the central nervous system.
- Synapse is a functional junction, where an impulse is transmitted from one neuron to
another.
5. What are the subcategories of the ANS?
- The subcategories of ANS are sympathetic and parasympathetic.