Reflex Action

Reflex Action

1. What is a reflex?

2. Why are reflexes so important?

3. Explain what is meant by a reflex action?

   • Automatic response

4. Explain why they are so important?

   • 1. They help you avoid danger
     • They help with basic bodily functions
       • e.g. breathing, digestion

5. How do they work?

   • STIMULUS
     • RECEPTOR
       • Sensory neurone
         • Co-ordinator
           • which usually is the spinal cord or the unconscious part of brain
           • Relay neuron
             • Motor neuron
               • EFFECTOR

6. What 3 types of neurons are involved?

   • Sensory neuron
     • Motor neurone
       • Relay neuron

7. What is extra special about the reflex arc?

   • the impulse bypasses the conscious area of the brain
     • so the time between the stimulus and reflex action is = short

8. What is a synapse?

   • Nerves are not directly joined up
     • Gaps (junctions) in between them

9. How are messages sent through a synapse?

   • electrical impulses cannot jump/ leap
     • 1. impulse arrives at a neuron
       • chemicals are released
         • Diffuse across
           • attatch to the next neuron and sends out a new impulse

10. How many neurons are involved in the normal way your body responds to change?

Images and files in the map