Nervous System

Human nervous system

Made up of a network of nerve cells or neurones

Two main subsystems in the nervous system

The central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system

The central nervous system

Includes the brain and spinal cord

The peripheral nervous system

Consists of 12 pairs of cranial nerves and 31 pairs of spinal nerves.

Cranial nerve function

Sends impulses from the cranial nerves and to the brain.

Brain

The coordination and control centre for humans

The main components of the brain

Cerebrum, hypothalamus, cerebellum, medulla oblongata and pituitary gland

Cerebrum

The largest and most complex structure present in the frontal part of the brain

Cerebellum

Maintains body balance and coordination of muscle contraction for body movement

Hypothalamus

Coordinating homeostasis and control centre that regulates body temperature, water balance, blood pressure and senses hunger, thirst and fatigue.