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13. (a) (i) Distinguish between the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 13 - 2010
Question 13
13. (a) (i) Distinguish between the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. Include a clear reference to each in your answer. (ii) Give one way in... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:13. (a) (i) Distinguish between the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 13 - 2010
Step 1
Distinguish between the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.
Answer
The Central Nervous System (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord, serving as the main control center for the body. It processes information and coordinates activity by sending signals across the body.
In contrast, the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) comprises all the nerves that lead to and from the CNS. This includes sensory and motor nerves that convey signals to and from various parts of the body, enabling interaction with the environment.
Step 2
Give one way in which a nervous response differs from a hormonal response.
Answer
A nervous response is typically faster than a hormonal response. Nervous responses are immediate and involve electrical impulses traveling along neurons, while hormonal responses are slower and involve the release of chemicals (hormones) into the bloodstream.
Step 3
Draw a large labelled diagram of a motor neuron.
Answer
A large labelled diagram of a motor neuron would include:
- Dendrites
- Cell body
- Axon
- Terminal branches
- Myelin sheath (if present) Each part should be clearly labelled, showing the direction of impulse transmission from dendrites to axon terminals.
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Name and state the role of any two types of neuron, other than the motor neuron.
Answer
-
Sensory Neurons: These neurons carry sensory information from receptors (like skin or eyes) to the CNS, informing the brain about external stimuli.
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Interneurons: Interneurons are found within the CNS and serve to connect sensory and motor neurons, facilitating communication within the nervous system.
Step 7
State one function for each of the following parts of the human brain.
Answer
Cerebrum: Responsible for higher brain functions like thought, memory, and voluntary muscle movement.
Hypothalamus: Regulates homeostasis, controlling body temperature, thirst, hunger, and circadian rhythms.
Cerebellum: Coordinates balance, movement, and motor functions.
Medulla oblongata: Controls involuntary functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Step 8
Distinguish between grey matter and white matter.
Answer
Grey matter consists mainly of neuronal cell bodies and is found in areas of the brain and spinal cord that process information. It has a butterfly shape in the spinal cord and forms the outer layer of the brain.
White matter, on the other hand, is made up of myelinated axons that connect different grey matter areas, facilitating communication between them.
Step 9
In the case of either paralysis or Parkinson’s disease state: 1. a possible cause, other than accident.
Answer
- Parkinson's Disease: A possible cause includes genetic factors or exposure to environmental toxins that affect dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.
For paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord due to diseases or infections, such as polio, can lead to paralysis.
Step 10
In the case of either paralysis or Parkinson’s disease state: 2. a method of treatment.
Answer
- Treatment for Parkinson's Disease includes medications like levodopa, which increases dopamine levels in the brain, or surgical options such as deep brain stimulation.
For paralysis: Physiotherapy is commonly recommended to help improve movement and maintain muscle function.