Chapter 7: Problem 11

Compare and contrast nervous and hormonal mechanisms for control and coordination in animals.

Short Answer

Expert verified

Nervous mechanisms are fast and short-term via electrical impulses; hormonal mechanisms are slow and long-term via hormones.

Step by step solution

- Define Nervous Mechanisms

Nervous mechanisms involve the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Information is transmitted through electrical impulses and neurotransmitters.

- Explain How Nervous Mechanisms Work

The nervous system responds quickly to stimuli. Neurons transmit electrical signals (action potentials) along their axons. These signals are passed across synapses using neurotransmitters. This allows for rapid communication and immediate responses.

- Define Hormonal Mechanisms

Hormonal mechanisms involve the endocrine system, which includes glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. These glands include the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, and others.

- Explain How Hormonal Mechanisms Work

Hormones are chemical messengers released into the blood. They travel to target organs or tissues and induce slower but prolonged responses compared to nervous mechanisms. Each hormone fits specific receptors on target cells.

- Compare Nervous and Hormonal Mechanisms

Nervous mechanisms are faster due to electrical impulses, while hormonal mechanisms are slower as they depend on blood circulation. Nervous responses are short-lived and precise, whereas hormonal responses are longer-lasting and more widespread.

- Contrast Nervous and Hormonal Mechanisms

Nervous mechanisms involve neurotransmitters and electrical signals, and they act on muscles or glands directly. Hormonal mechanisms involve hormones, which act on distant organs through the bloodstream. The nervous system generally handles rapid, short-term tasks, while the hormonal system manages longer-term adjustments.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

nervous system

The nervous system is a sophisticated network that includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It uses electrical impulses and neurotransmitters for swift communication.
This system is designed to respond quickly to external and internal stimuli.
Neurons transmit electrical signals known as action potentials along their axons.
These electrical signals are then passed across synapses with the help of neurotransmitters.
This allows for rapid and precise responses, ideal for tasks that require immediate attention such as reflex actions or acute sensory input.
The nervous system can control muscles for movement or glands for secretion.

endocrine system

The endocrine system consists of glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.
Major glands include the pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands.
Hormones act as chemical messengers that travel through the blood to reach target organs or tissues.
This system is slower compared to the nervous system but provides longer-lasting effects.
Each hormone fits specific receptors on the target cells, ensuring that the message is delivered to the right place.
This leads to physiological changes that can last from a few minutes to several days.
The endocrine system plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, growth, reproduction, and mood.

control and coordination in animals

Animals depend on both the nervous and endocrine systems for control and coordination.
These systems work together to maintain homeostasis, which is the body's internal balance.
While the nervous system is responsible for rapid responses, like moving your hand away from a hot stove, the endocrine system handles slower, long-term adjustments.
For example, the nervous system can quickly make your heart rate increase if you are frightened, but the endocrine system manages changes in your body during puberty.
Both systems are essential for the survival and proper functioning of animals, each specializing in distinct yet complementary types of control and coordination.

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Compare and contrast nervous and hormonal mechanisms for control and coordination in animals.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

- Define Nervous Mechanisms

- Explain How Nervous Mechanisms Work

- Define Hormonal Mechanisms

- Explain How Hormonal Mechanisms Work

- Compare Nervous and Hormonal Mechanisms

- Contrast Nervous and Hormonal Mechanisms

Key Concepts

nervous system

endocrine system

control and coordination in animals

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