Chapter 11, Problem 1CYU

What is meant by “integration,” and does it primarily occur in the CNS or the PNS?

Summary Introduction

To review:

The definition of ‘integration’ and the location of its occurrence, that is, CNS (central nervous system) or PNS (peripheral nervous system).

Introduction:

The nervous system is one of the important organ systems that plays a master role in the control and communication of various cells or tissues within the body. Neurons or nerve cells are the basic structural and functional units of the nervous system. These cells communicate through rapid and specific electrical and chemical signals, which generally cause an immediate response.

Explanation of Solution

The nervous system is divided into two main parts, namely, CNS and PNS. There are three basic functions that are played by the nervous system, which include sensory input, integration, and motor output.

Integration is defined as the process through which the nervous system receives and interprets the sensory input signal, and then decides the motor output in response to the input received from the sensory organ. It primarily occurs in the CNS, which majorly constitutes the brain and spinal cord. The integrating and control center of the nervous system is the CNS. The brain is the main organ in the CNS, where the integration takes place.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that integration is the process where the signal received from the sensory part of the body is interpreted and a decision for the motor output is made. It primarily occurs in the brain, a major part of CNS.