Figure 27.1 This shark uses its senses of sight, vibration (lateral-line system), and smell to hunt, but it also relies on its ability to sense the electric fields of prey, a sense not present in most land animals. (credit: modification of work…
Neurons and Glial Cells The nervous system is made up of neurons and glia. Neurons are specialized cells that are capable of sending electrical as well as chemical signals. Most neurons contain dendrites, which receive these signals, and axons that…
LEARNING OBJECTIVES In this section, you will explore the following questions: Connection for AP® Courses Information about disorders of the nervous system is out of scope for AP®. A nervous system that functions correctly is a complex and well-oiled machine—synapses fire…
LEARNING OBJECTIVES In this section, you will explore the following questions: Connection for AP® Courses The information about the peripheral nervous system is not within the scope of AP®. However, it is important to note that the peripheral nervous system (PNS)…
LEARNING OBJECTIVES In this section, you will explore the following questions: Connection for AP® Courses The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord, both of which are protected by the skull and vertebral column, respectively. The CNS receives…
In this section, you will explore the following questions: Connection for AP® Courses The neuron is a great example of a structure-function relationship at the cellular level. Information flow along a neuron is usually from dendrite to axon and from neuron…
In this section, you will explore the following questions: Connection for AP® Courses Much information about the various organ systems of animals is not within the scope of AP®. The nervous system, however, was selected for in-depth study because an animal’s…
Figure 26.1 An athlete’s nervous system is hard at work during the planning and execution of a movement as precise as a high jump. Parts of the nervous system are involved in determining how hard to push off and when to turn,…
Digestive Systems Different animals have evolved different types of digestive systems specialized to meet their dietary needs. Humans and many other animals have monogastric digestive systems with a single-chambered stomach. Birds have evolved a digestive system that includes a gizzard…
LEARNING OBJECTIVES In this section, you will explore the following questions: Connection for AP® Courses The concepts presented in this module are not within the scope for AP® other than to note that the brain houses the control center for the sensation…