Peripheral Nervous System
Definition
The peripheral nervous system is the part of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord. It connects the central nervous system to limbs and organs.
Scientific / Technical Definition
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of all the nerves that lie outside the brain and spinal cord. The primary role of the PNS is to connect the central nervous system (CNS) to the limbs and organs. It is responsible for relaying information between the body and the brain, and enables responses to external stimuli through motor reactions.
Benefits
- Facilitates communication between the central nervous system and the rest of the body.
- Supports voluntary and involuntary bodily functions.
- Plays a crucial role in reflex actions.
Examples
- Nerve pathways that enable motor control.
- Sensory nerves that allow us to feel touch, pain, and temperature.
Additional Information
- Effects: The peripheral nervous system enables the body to interact with external environments by facilitating movement and sensory experiences. It is crucial for both voluntary actions, like waving a hand, and involuntary actions, like reflexes.
Last updated: 10/26/2024