Module 7: Neural and Hormonal Systems
Neural
Communication:
The Neural Chain
Receptor Cells
• Specialized cells in the sensory systems
of the body that can turn other kinds of
energy into action potentials that the
nervous system can process
• EX. Receptor cells in the eye turn light
into a neural impulse the brain
understands.
• Examples from other senses?
Sensory Nerves
• Nerves that carry information to the
central nervous system
• The receptor cell is the beginning of the
chain
• Connect the sense organs to the brain
and spinal cord
Interneurons
• Nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord
responsible for processing information
related to sensory input and motor
output
Motor Nerves
• Nerves that carry information from the
central nervous system
• Carries messages from the brain and
spinal cord to other parts of your body
A Neural Chain
A Neural Chain
A Neural Chain
A Neural Chain
A Neural Chain
Personal example
• Think of an example when you were in
physical discomfort, but you “toughed it
out” because you didn’t want people to
make fun of you or think less of you.
• Share it with a partner.
Reflex vs. thought process
• Your example
• Touch a hot burner on a stove – what do
you do?
• A baseball is coming quickly right at you –
what do you do?
• Blow in your face?
Neural Chain Activity