Which of the following is responsible for control of reflex actions :-a)Motor nervesb)Sensory nervesc)Central nervous systemd)Sympathetic nervous systemCorrect answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

Answer

A reflex arc is a neural pathway, that controls an action reflex. In higher animals, most sensory neurons do not pass directly into the brain, but synapse in the spinal cord (central nervous system). This characteristic allows reflex actions to occur relatively quickly by activating spinal motor neurons without the delay of sending signals through the brain.

Answer

Answer

The correct answer is option 'C' - the central nervous system.

Explanation:
The central nervous system (CNS) is responsible for controlling reflex actions. Reflex actions are involuntary responses to external stimuli that occur without conscious thought. They are rapid and automatic, providing quick responses to potential threats or dangers.

The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord, which work together to process information and coordinate various bodily functions. Let's delve into the role of the CNS in controlling reflex actions further:

1. Definition of reflex actions:
- Reflex actions are automatic responses that occur without conscious thought.
- They are controlled by simple nerve pathways called reflex arcs.

2. Components of a reflex arc:
- Sensory receptor: Detects the stimulus (e.g., touch, pain, temperature) and converts it into an electrical signal.
- Sensory neuron: Transmits the electrical signal from the receptor to the CNS.
- Integration center: Located within the CNS (typically the spinal cord), it processes the incoming sensory information.
- Motor neuron: Carries the response signal from the CNS to the effector.
- Effector: A muscle or gland that carries out the response (e.g., contraction or secretion).

3. Role of the CNS in reflex actions:
- When a sensory receptor detects a stimulus, it sends a signal to the CNS via a sensory neuron.
- The integration center within the CNS processes the incoming sensory information and generates a response signal.
- The response signal is then transmitted from the CNS to the effector via a motor neuron.
- The effector carries out the appropriate response, such as muscle contraction or gland secretion.

4. Involvement of the CNS in reflex arc examples:
- The knee-jerk reflex: When the doctor taps the patellar tendon below the knee, sensory receptors detect the stretch and send a signal to the spinal cord (integration center) within the CNS. The spinal cord then sends a signal back to the thigh muscles, causing a reflexive contraction and the leg to kick.
- Withdrawal reflex: When you accidentally touch a hot object, sensory receptors in your skin detect the heat and send a signal to the spinal cord. The spinal cord quickly sends a signal back to the muscles, causing a reflexive withdrawal of the hand from the hot object.

In conclusion, the CNS, comprising the brain and spinal cord, is responsible for controlling reflex actions. It receives sensory information, processes it, and generates appropriate responses through reflex arcs.

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