Reflex Action and Reflex Arc (Grade 12 NSC Matric Life Sciences): Flashcards
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Reflex action definition
Reflex action definition
Rapid, involuntary reaction to stimulus without conscious thought
Reflex arc definition
Reflex arc definition
Complete neural pathway nerve impulses follow during reflex
Why are reflex actions important?
Why are reflex actions important?
Protective function; enable split-second response to danger
Role of receptors in reflex arc
Role of receptors in reflex arc
Detect stimulus & convert to electrical nerve impulses
Where does sensory neuron enter spinal cord?
Where does sensory neuron enter spinal cord?
Through dorsal root
Role of interneuron in reflex arc
Role of interneuron in reflex arc
Relay station connecting sensory to motor neuron in spinal cord
Where does motor neuron exit spinal cord?
Where does motor neuron exit spinal cord?
Through ventral root
Role of effector in reflex arc
Role of effector in reflex arc
Produces final response (e.g., muscles contract)
Is brain initially involved in reflex actions?
Is brain initially involved in reflex actions?
No, reflex processed in spinal cord; brain aware after
Complete reflex arc pathway sequence
Complete reflex arc pathway sequence
Stimulus→Receptor→Sensory→Interneuron→Motor→Effector→Response