Functions

The nervous system is the body’s master control and communication network.

The nervous system has three primary functions:

1. Sensory Function – It detects internal and external stimuli using sensory receptors. This includes monitoring changes in the environment (e.g., temperature, light, pressure) and within the body (e.g., pH, blood pressure).

2. Integrative Function – It processes and interprets sensory input and decides what action should be taken. This includes perception, analysis, memory, and decision-making, mostly occurring in the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system).

3. Motor Function – It responds to stimuli by initiating actions through motor output. This function activates muscles (skeletal, cardiac, smooth) or glands to carry out a response, like moving a limb or secreting a hormone.

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   1. Sensory Function (Input)

   • Detects changes inside and outside the body (stimuli).

   • Uses sensory receptors to gather information (e.g., light, sound, touch, pain, temperature, internal organ status).

   • Sends this information to the brain and spinal cord.

   Example: Eyes detect light, skin senses heat, stretch receptors in muscles monitor movement.

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   2. Integrative Function (Processing & Decision-Making)

   • Processes and interprets sensory input.

   • Decides what should be done based on past experiences, current conditions, and future needs.

   • Integrates information to produce appropriate responses.

   Example: The brain interprets a loud sound as a possible threat and decides whether to ignore it or respond.

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   3. Motor Function (Output)

   • Carries out the response by activating effectors (muscles or glands).

   • Sends signals from the brain and spinal cord to the body to produce action.

   Example: Muscles contract to move your hand away from a hot surface; glands secrete hormones like adrenaline during stress.

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   Overall Functions:

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   • Regulation of body processes (heart rate, digestion, breathing).

   • Maintenance of homeostasis (keeping internal balance).

   • Higher mental functions (thinking, memory, learning, emotions).

   • Coordination and communication between all body systems.

   👉 In short: The nervous system senses, processes, and responds—it keeps the body aware, coordinated, and balanced.

   Would you like me to also break this down into central nervous system (CNS) vs. peripheral nervous system (PNS) functions for clarity?

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