Which of the following statements about the general functions of the nervous system is false?


a. The three primary functions of the nervous system include sensory, integrative, and motor functions.
b. The integrative functions of the nervous system are its processing functions.
c. Sensory stimuli are transmitted on sensory efferent fibers to a sensory receptor.
d. Motor functions are carried out by fibers that carry signals to an effector.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the three primary functions of the nervous system: sensory, integrative, and motor functions.
2. Understand that sensory functions involve detecting stimuli and sending information to the central nervous system (CNS).
3. Recognize that integrative functions involve processing and interpreting sensory information in the CNS.
4. Know that motor functions involve sending signals from the CNS to effectors (muscles or glands) to elicit a response.
5. Evaluate each statement to determine which one incorrectly describes these functions, focusing on the direction of signal transmission in sensory and motor pathways.

Key Concepts

Functions of the Nervous System

The nervous system has three primary functions: sensory, integrative, and motor. Sensory functions involve receiving stimuli from the environment through sensory receptors. Integrative functions process and interpret these sensory inputs, leading to appropriate responses. Motor functions involve sending signals to effectors, such as muscles or glands, to elicit a response.

Sensory and Efferent Fibers

Sensory fibers, also known as afferent fibers, carry information from sensory receptors to the central nervous system (CNS). In contrast, efferent fibers transmit signals from the CNS to effectors. Understanding the distinction between these types of fibers is crucial for grasping how sensory information is processed and acted upon by the nervous system.

Integrative Functions

Integrative functions of the nervous system refer to the processing and interpretation of sensory information. This involves complex neural networks that analyze incoming data, allowing the organism to make decisions and coordinate responses. This function is essential for understanding how the nervous system integrates various stimuli to produce coherent actions.