The peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of all the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It connects the central nervous system (CNS) to limbs and organs, facilitating communication throughout the body.
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The PNS is divided into the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.
Somatic nerves control voluntary movements by innervating skeletal muscles.
Autonomic nerves regulate involuntary functions such as heart rate and digestion.
The PNS includes sensory (afferent) neurons that carry signals to the CNS and motor (efferent) neurons that transmit commands from the CNS to muscles and glands.
Damage to peripheral nerves can result in conditions like neuropathy, affecting sensation and muscle control.
Review Questions
What are the two main divisions of the peripheral nervous system?
How do sensory and motor neurons differ in their roles within the PNS?
What types of bodily functions are regulated by autonomic nerves?
Related terms
Central Nervous System (CNS): Comprises the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing information.
Somatic Nervous System: A division of the PNS that controls voluntary movements by activating skeletal muscles.