Peripheral Nervous System

Author: Scott A. Sheffield MS

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The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is made up of nerves, and inside the nerves are image descriptionneurons (nerve cells) that conduct action potentials between the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral organs.

An image showing the two divisions of the nervous system (Sensory and motor) and the subdivisions (voluntary and involuntary) sections
An image showing the two divisions of the nervous system (Sensory and motor) and the subdivisions (voluntary and involuntary) sections, the Neurons are labled
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  • Based on the direction in which they conduct action potentials, neurons split the PNS into image descriptionsensory (afferent) and (efferent) divisions.
An image showing the two divisions of the nervous system (Sensory and motor) and the subdivisions (voluntary and involuntary) sections, the Neurons are labled
An image showing the two divisions of the nervous system (Sensory and motor) and the subdivisions (voluntary and involuntary) sections, the Sensory division is labeled
An image showing the two divisions of the nervous system (Sensory and motor) and the subdivisions (voluntary and involuntary) sections, the Motor and sensory divisions are labeled
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  • Sensory division neurons conduct action potentials image descriptiontoward the CNS.
  • Motor division neurons conduct action potentials image descriptionaway from the CNS.

Want to master nervous system anatomy? Look no further than these interactive quizzes, worksheets and labeling exercises.

  • Both divisions have branches that allow the CNS to voluntarily (consciously) or involuntarily (subconsciously) monitor and control the certain tissues and organs.
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