Concept explainers
List the general steps of a reflex pathway, including the anatomical structures in the nervous system that correspond to each step.
To determine: The general steps that involved in a reflex pathway along with the anatomical structures that are involved at each step.
Introduction: Reflex actions are generated involuntarily in the body against stimuli. Information about such actions is processed and accordingly the response action is done by the body in very short time. Reflex actions are generally seen in situations involving negative feedback.
Answer to Problem 1CC
Pictorial representation: Fig. 1 represents the general steps involved in a reflex pathway.
Fig. 1: Steps along with the organs involved in a reflex pathway
Explanation of Solution
In a reflex pathway different steps are involved for conduction of signals. Different anatomical structures are involved at each step.
- Step 1: Receiving of signals (stimulus) and activation of receptors
Signals for different stimuli are received by the sensory receptors that are present on the different sensory organs of the body.
- Step 2: Conduction of input signals
Signals received by the receptors are passed on to the sensory neurons. These signals pass through the afferent pathway towards the spinal cord.
- Step 3: Signal integration
The incoming signal in case of reflex action is integrated and processed at the spinal cord itself which serves as integrating centre. Here the signals for the needed response is generated and passed on towards the target site. From the spinal cord, signal is also transferred to the brain for further processing.
- Step 4: Conduction of output signals
Response signals generated in at the integration centre are sent back to the target site through the efferent neurons. These signals make the target organs to take the necessary action.
- Step 5: Response
Response for the stimuli is done by the target organ. Signals for the response travel through the efferent neurons to the target site and the required action is performed.
It is important to note that in reflex pathway, although the incoming stimuli signals are transferred to the brain for complete processing but the response signal for the incoming stimuli is generated at the spinal cord itself for quick response action.
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Chapter 13 Solutions
Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach (7th Edition)
- Describe reflex responses in terms of the major structural and functional components of a reflex arc.arrow_forwardCompare and contrast the neural paths for a somatic reflex versus a visceral reflex.arrow_forwardName the following parts of the neuron as indicated. Specify the functions of each part. 1 7 2 5 4 3 Illustrate and explain the reflex arc. Illustrate and explain transmission of neuronal impulses across synapse.arrow_forward
- Describe a situation where a reflex arc would be activated that is not described in your lesson. Assume that the reflex arc has five components to it. Please choose a reflex that involves a body part below the neck. (If you have trouble with this, do an internet search for information on reflex arcs.) Which type of structure was first stimulated in the reflex arc? What is the name of the second structure involved in the reflex arc? Into what part of the nervous system did the second structure send its electrical signal? What is the name of the third structure involved in the reflex arc? Where is this third structure located? What is affected by the electrical signal sent by the third structure? (This will be the fourth structure in the arc.) Where is the cell body of the fourth structure located? What is affected by the electrical signal sent by the fourth structure? (This will be the fifth structure in the arc.) What does the fifth structure do in response to that electrical signal…arrow_forwardDistinguish between the following types of reflexes: A) Somatic vs. Visceral (autonomic) reflex B) Monosynaptic vs. Polysynaptic reflex C) Ipsilateral vs. Contralateral vs. Bilateral (consensual) reflex D) Cranial vs. Spinal reflexarrow_forwardWhen a physician elicits the patellar reflex, what physiological activities are being examined? List four. (Hint: think of the function of each component of the reflex pathway).arrow_forward
- Define reflex.arrow_forwardWhen describing the reflex arcs and the neural pathways involved we often limit ourselves to the nerves carrying information from the muscle or tendon to the spinal cord and back. However, it should be clear from our ability to feel the tendon tap as well as the results from the Jendrassik’s maneuver test that it isn’t this simple. What other neural connections must be present ?arrow_forwardList three body functions that reflexes control.arrow_forward
- Which of the following is the correct order of components in a reflex? Place in correct order stimulus, effector, efferent pathway, integrating center, afferent pathway, receptor?arrow_forwardDescartes' version of the reflex arc was important for understanding the brain's role in sensation, perception and reactivity. Which feature of Descartes' reflex arc is comparable to neurotransmission through motor, inter, and sensory neurons in the present day reflex circuit? A) body activity B) External stimulus C) Valvules Opening D) Nerve stimulationarrow_forwardTrace the reflex arc, naming efferent and afferent nerves, receptors, effectors, and integration centers, for the following reflexes: alcaneal tendon reflexarrow_forward
- Human Biology (MindTap Course List)BiologyISBN:9781305112100Author:Cecie Starr, Beverly McMillanPublisher:Cengage Learning