Control and Coordination : Quick revision notes
- Biology Notes
- Jun 23, 2023
- 2 min read
Introduction:
- Control and coordination are essential processes in living organisms that allow them to respond and adapt to their environment.
- In humans, control and coordination are carried out by the nervous system and the endocrine system.
Nervous System:
- The nervous system is responsible for rapid control and coordination in the body.
- It consists of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (nerves).
- The basic unit of the nervous system is the neuron, which transmits electrical impulses.
Parts of the Nervous System:
1. Central Nervous System (CNS):
- Consists of the brain and spinal cord.
- The brain is the control center of the body, responsible for processing information and initiating responses.
- The spinal cord relays information between the brain and the rest of the body.
2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS):
- Consists of nerves that connect the CNS to various body parts.
- Divided into the somatic nervous system (voluntary control) and the autonomic nervous system (involuntary control).
Nerve Impulse:
- A nerve impulse is an electrical signal that travels along a neuron.
- It is initiated by a stimulus that triggers a change in the electrical charge across the neuron's membrane.
- The impulse travels through the neuron in the form of an action potential.
Reflex Action:
- A reflex action is an involuntary and rapid response to a stimulus.
- It involves a reflex arc, which bypasses the brain and allows for quick reactions.
- The reflex arc includes a receptor, sensory neuron, relay neuron (interneuron), motor neuron, and an effector.
Endocrine System:
- The endocrine system uses chemical messengers called hormones to control and coordinate activities in the body.
- Hormones are produced by endocrine glands and are transported through the bloodstream to target cells or organs.
Important Endocrine Glands:
1. Pituitary gland:
- Located at the base of the brain and controls the functioning of other endocrine glands.
- Produces hormones that regulate growth, reproduction, and metabolism.
2. Thyroid gland:
- Located in the neck and produces hormones that regulate metabolism and growth.
3. Adrenal glands:
- Situated above the kidneys and secrete hormones involved in stress response (e.g., adrenaline).
4. Pancreas:
- Produces insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar levels.
Coordination in Plants:
- Plants coordinate their activities through chemical substances called plant hormones or phytohormones.
- Important plant hormones include auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, abscisic acid, and ethylene.
- These hormones regulate various plant processes such as growth, flowering, and responses to environmental stimuli.
Conclusion:
- Control and coordination are vital for the survival and proper functioning of organisms.
- The nervous system and the endocrine system work together to maintain homeostasis and enable organisms to adapt to their surroundings.
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