Chapter 18: Neural Control and Coordination

Biology • Class 11

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Chapter Analysis

Intermediate10 pages • English

Quick Summary

The chapter on Neural Control and Coordination covers the structure and function of the neural system, primarily focusing on the human neural system. It describes the central and peripheral neural systems, highlighting the structural and functional units, such as neurons, and processes including the generation and transmission of nerve impulses. The chapter also details the anatomy of the brain, nerve fibres, and discusses synaptic transmission and the role of neurotransmitters.

Key Topics

  • Neural coordination and integration
  • Structure and function of neurons
  • Central and peripheral nervous systems
  • Nerve impulse generation and conduction
  • Transmission across synapses
  • Human brain anatomy
  • Role of neurotransmitters

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the structural components of the neural system
  • Explain the process of nerve impulse generation and conduction
  • Identify the structures involved in synapse transmission
  • Differentiate between the CNS and PNS
  • Describe the anatomical divisions of the brain
  • Explain the role and function of neurotransmitters in synaptic transmission

Questions in Chapter

Briefly describe the structure of the Brain

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Compare the following: (a) Central neural system (CNS) and Peripheral neural system (PNS) (b) Resting potential and action potential

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Explain the following processes: (a) Polarisation of the membrane of a nerve fibre (b) Depolarisation of the membrane of a nerve fibre (c) Transmission of a nerve impulse across a chemical synapse

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Draw labelled diagrams of the following: (a) Neuron (b) Brain

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Write short notes on the following: (a) Neural coordination (b) Forebrain (c) Midbrain (d) Hindbrain (e) Synapse

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Give a brief account of Mechanism of synaptic transmission.

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Explain the role of Na+ in the generation of action potential.

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Differentiate between: (a) Myelinated and non-myelinated axons (b) Dendrites and axons (c) Thalamus and Hypothalamus (d) Cerebrum and Cerebellum

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Answer the following: (a) Which part of the human brain is the most developed? (b) Which part of our central neural system acts as a master clock?

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Distinguish between: (a) afferent neurons and efferent neurons (b) impulse conduction in a myelinated nerve fibre and unmyelinated nerve fibre (f) cranial nerves and spinal nerves.

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Additional Practice Questions

What is the role of neurotransmitters in neural function?

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Answer: Neurotransmitters are chemicals that facilitate the transmission of signals from one neuron to another across synapses. They are released from synaptic vesicles into the synaptic cleft where they bind to specific receptors on the post-synaptic neuron, triggering a response.

Illustrate and explain the structure of a typical neuron.

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Answer: A neuron typically consists of a cell body (soma), dendrites, and an axon. The cell body houses the nucleus and other organelles. Dendrites receive signals from other neurons, while the axon transmits impulses away from the cell body to other neurons or muscles. Many axons are covered with a myelin sheath with gaps known as nodes of Ranvier.

Describe the process of nerve impulse conduction in myelinated vs. non-myelinated nerve fibres.

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Answer: In myelinated fibres, impulse conduction occurs through saltatory conduction, where impulses jump between nodes of Ranvier, making it faster. In non-myelinated fibres, impulses travel continuously along the axon, which is slower.

Explain the difference between afferent and efferent nerve fibres.

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Answer: Afferent nerve fibres carry sensory signals from receptors to the central nervous system, while efferent fibres carry motor commands from the central nervous system to muscles and glands.

How does the central nervous system differ from the peripheral nervous system?

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Answer: The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord, serving as the control center for processing information, while the peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of nerves extending to peripheral tissues, mediating communication between the CNS and the rest of the body.