Reflex Arc LG 16

Front

What is a reflex arc?

Back

A reflex arc is a neural pathway that controls a reflex action. It typically involves a sensory neuron, an interneuron, and an effector.

Front

What role does the stimulus play in a reflex arc?

Back

The stimulus is the initial trigger that activates the sensory neuron, leading to a reflex response.

Front

What is an efferent neuron?

Back

An efferent neuron is a type of neuron that carries signals away from the central nervous system to an effector, such as a muscle or gland.

Front

What is the function of the effector in a reflex arc?

Back

The effector is the muscle or organ that responds to the signal from the efferent neuron, producing a reaction.

Front

What is the knee-jerk reflex?

Back

The knee-jerk reflex is a simple reflex action that occurs when the patellar tendon is tapped, causing the quadriceps muscle to contract and the leg to kick.

Front

What are the components of a reflex arc?

Back

The components of a reflex arc include a sensory receptor, a sensory neuron, an interneuron (in some reflexes), an efferent neuron, and an effector.

Front

What is the role of the spinal cord in reflex actions?

Back

The spinal cord processes the information from sensory neurons and sends signals through efferent neurons to initiate a reflex action without involving the brain.

Front

What is the difference between a sensory neuron and an efferent neuron?

Back

A sensory neuron transmits signals from sensory receptors to the central nervous system, while an efferent neuron transmits signals from the central nervous system to effectors.

Front

What is an example of an effector in a reflex arc?

Back

An example of an effector is a muscle, such as the quadriceps muscle in the knee-jerk reflex.

Front

What happens during the reflex action?

Back

During a reflex action, the sensory neuron detects a stimulus, sends a signal to the spinal cord, which then activates the efferent neuron to trigger a response in the effector.