Reflex Action

What is a reflex?
Why are reflexes so important?
Explain what is meant by a reflex action?
1. Automatic response
Explain why they are so important?
1. 1. They help you avoid danger
  1. They help with basic bodily functions
    1. e.g. breathing, digestion
How do they work?
1. STIMULUS
  1. RECEPTOR
    1. Sensory neurone
      1. Co-ordinator
        which usually is the spinal cord or the unconscious part of brain
        Relay neuron
        Motor neuron
        EFFECTOR
What 3 types of neurons are involved?
1. Sensory neuron
  1. Motor neurone
    1. Relay neuron
What is extra special about the reflex arc?
1. the impulse bypasses the conscious area of the brain
  1. so the time between the stimulus and reflex action is = short
What is a synapse?
1. Nerves are not directly joined up
  1. Gaps (junctions) in between them
How are messages sent through a synapse?
1. electrical impulses cannot jump/ leap
  1. 1. impulse arrives at a neuron
    1. chemicals are released
      1. Diffuse across
        attatch to the next neuron and sends out a new impulse
How many neurons are involved in the normal way your body responds to change?

Resource summary

	Created by Rohii Mia over 11 years ago