Neurons have the primary duty of carrying information to all parts of the body in electrical and chemical forms. Individual neurons are connected to facilitate the transmission of messages from one location of the body to another. In an extensive network, neurons form consciousness and intelligence ( Coon & Mitterer, 2013) . A neuron is comprised of the axon, dendrites, and soma. Each neuron has molecules called ions with some having a negative charge while others have a positive charge. At an inactive state (resting potential), a neuron has more negative charges inside and positive charges outside, allowing it to behave like a logical battery.
A message from another neuron lowers and raises the inactive state. For example, if an incoming message raises the charge to -70millivolts a firing point will be reached (threshold). An active potential is thus reached, and the active neuron sends a message its immediate “neighbor.” The time-lapse is a split second. In the action state, sodium ions enter into the axion. A gate after gate opens at the end of the axion. The charges change per the electrical pulses triggered by the other neurons. For example, according to Coon and Mitterer (2013) the “negative after potential” takes place due to the outflow of potassium ions out of the charged state of the neuron. At times, neurotransmitters are required to pass over messages from one to another neuron.
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Neurotransmitters refer to chemical messengers that bridge the gap between one neuron and another and help in transmitting information between the synaptic gap. There are three major types of neurotransmitters; Dopamine, Endorphins, and Acetylcholine. Each has a unique function in the transmission of information from one neuron to another. Neural Networks refer to interconnected neurons that have the responsibility of processing information in the brain. These networks continuously change depending on a response of experience. Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the brain to vary depending on experience or response. In human beings, every experience brings forth a change in the cerebrum, thus neuroplasticity.
Nervous System
The peripheral nervous system and central nervous system make up the Nervous system. PNS encompasses the body nerves and the ganglion. The CNS comprises of the spinal cord and cerebrum. The brain is located in the cranium while spinal cord is situated in vertebral column. PNS is named and founded outside the spinal cord.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
PNS consist of somatic and automatic system. Somatic nervous system conveys messages/signals from and to skeletal muscles and the sense organs and controls the general voluntary action of the body ( Coon & Mitterer, 2013) . On the other hand, the autonomous NS undertakes functions in the glands and internal body organs. Notably, it governs activities such as perspiration, digestion, and heart rates. For example, messages delivered or transmitted by the automatic can make the legs move but cannot make the eyes dilate.
Similarly, messages by ANS do stimulate digestion but cannot activate the voluntary actions of the body. SNS and ANS together manage the body’s internal responses to external experiences ( Coon & Mitterer, 2013) . ANS is further divided into parasympathetic and sympathetic branches with both dedicated to an emotional reaction, for example, sweating. The PNS can regrow.
Spinal Cord
The brain connects to the other body parts via the spinal cord. It comprises of white matter or tissue encompassed in axons that connect to the peripheral nervous system connections. Approximately 31 spinal nerves transmit messages to and fro the spinal cord. At the same time, 12 cranial nerves connect the brain keeping communication between the body parts and the brain. Coon and Mitterer (2013) state that t he spinal cord can also undertake simple computations such as reflex action that occurs without involving the brain. Despite sounding as a simple reaction, the entire response comprises of complex activities undertaken within milliseconds that involves many spinal nerves and cells. The spinal cord usually is permanent and cannot grow.
The Brain (Cerebrum)
Cerebrum is the command section of the nervous system. The cerebrum receives and outputs all messages and signals. Cerebrum comprises roughly 86b nerve cells - the grey matter. On the other hand, white matter comprises dendrites and axon, amounting to billions of nerve fibers. The neurons in the brain connect through synapses. The cerebrum is the most significant part of the brain comprised of two hemispheres ( Coon & Mitterer, 2013) . The brainstem is the underneath layer while the cerebellum is founded behind the brainstem. The cerebral cortex consisting of the occipital, temporal, parietal, and frontal is the outermost part of the cerebrum.
The brain majorly develops from the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain, each containing ventricles (fluid-filled cavities). The hindbrain arises into the brainstem regions while the midbrain forms part of the brainstem. The forebrain gives rise to the underlying structures and the cerebrum. The cerebral cortex forms the complex thought section with visual/sight activities occurring in the occipital. Sound and language are processed in the temporal lobe, comprising of the amygdala and hippocampus. The two also play a significant role in memory and perform functions. On the other hand, the parietal lobe is critical for navigation and spatial orientation.
Midbrain, Pons, and Medulla oblongata makes up the brainstem and has the primary function of heart controls, consciousness, and breathing. Other features include passing information to the body. The hypothalamus and thalamus are located between the brainstem and cerebrum. Coon and Mitterer (2013) state that t he ES and the NS (hormones are produced here) are connected by the hypothalamus. The thalamus has the responsibility of relaying motor and sensory signals which is responsible for alertness, sleep, and consciousness. On the other hand, the cerebellum controls the motor, balances and coordinates cognitive functionalities.
Reference
Coon, D., & Mitterer, J. O. (2013). Psychology: A journey . London: Cengage Learning.
