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AP Psychology

Dec 3, 2025

86

4 pages

UNIT 2 (2.3) - Understanding the Nervous System Functions

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Kylie Williams @kyliewilliams_8

The nervous system is your body's command center, controlling everything from conscious thoughts to automatic functions like breathing.... Show more

AP PSYCHOLOGY UNIT 2 - 2.3 Overview of the
Nervous System
Nervous System:
The nervous system serves as the body's intricate electrochemical

Overview of the Nervous System

Your nervous system is like an incredibly complex electrical wiring system that transmits information throughout your body. It has two main parts the central nervous system (CNS) - your brain and spinal cord - and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which connects the CNS to the rest of your body.

The brain is your body's control center, where neural networks enable you to think, feel, remember, and act. These networks process massive amounts of information in milliseconds! Meanwhile, your spinal cord serves as the communication highway between your brain and body.

Reflexes are one of the coolest features of your nervous system - they're automatic responses that bypass your brain completely. When you touch something hot, your hand pulls away before you even feel pain because interneurons in your spinal cord create this lightning-fast reaction.

Did You Know? Your nervous system transmits information at speeds up to 268 miles per hour - faster than Formula 1 race cars! This incredible speed is why you can react so quickly to sudden dangers.

AP PSYCHOLOGY UNIT 2 - 2.3 Overview of the
Nervous System
Nervous System:
The nervous system serves as the body's intricate electrochemical

Neural Communication

Think of neurons as the messengers of your body - they're specialized cells that transmit information from one part of your body to another. There are three main types that work together to create a communication network.

Sensory neurons are like scouts, constantly collecting information about your environment. They detect everything from the temperature outside to the pressure of your shoes against your feet. Interneurons are the processors - they take this information and decide what to do with it. Finally, motor neurons carry commands to your muscles and glands, telling them how to respond.

Communication between neurons happens through action potentials - electrical signals that travel down the axon like a wave. This works on an all-or-nothing principle - if a signal reaches the threshold, an action potential fires; if not, nothing happens. This system ensures clear, reliable messaging throughout your body.

When an action potential reaches the end of a neuron, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters - chemical messengers that cross the tiny gap between neurons called a synapse. These chemicals are picked up by the next neuron, continuing the signal chain. Synapses can be electrical (fast and direct) or chemical (slower but more flexible).

Brain Boost When you're learning something new, your brain is literally creating and strengthening connections between neurons. The more you practice, the stronger these connections become!

AP PSYCHOLOGY UNIT 2 - 2.3 Overview of the
Nervous System
Nervous System:
The nervous system serves as the body's intricate electrochemical

The Autonomic Nervous System

Your body operates many functions automatically without you having to think about them. Your heart beats, you breathe, and your digestive system works all on their own thanks to the autonomic nervous system, a division of your peripheral nervous system.

The autonomic system has two branches that work as opposing forces the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. Think of them as your body's gas pedal and brake. The sympathetic system the"fightorflight"responsethe "fight-or-flight" response kicks in during stressful situations - before a big test, it increases your heart rate and breathing, preparing you to face the challenge.

The parasympathetic system (the "rest and digest" response) does the opposite. After the stress passes, it helps your body return to a calm state, slowing your heart rate and allowing you to relax. This balance between the two systems helps maintain your body's equilibrium.

Test Tip When you feel nervous before an exam, that's your sympathetic nervous system activating! Try taking slow, deep breaths to engage your parasympathetic system and calm yourself down.

AP PSYCHOLOGY UNIT 2 - 2.3 Overview of the
Nervous System
Nervous System:
The nervous system serves as the body's intricate electrochemical

Divisions of the Nervous System

Your entire nervous system is organized into a logical hierarchy that helps coordinate all your bodily functions. At the top level, it divides into the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (everything else).

The peripheral nervous system further splits into two branches the somatic system controls all your voluntary movements, like raising your hand in class or kicking a soccer ball. The autonomic system handles all the automatic functions you don't consciously control.

Within the autonomic system, the sympathetic division activates your body in moments of stress or excitement, while the parasympathetic division promotes relaxation and normal functioning. These systems constantly work together, adjusting your body's responses to meet your changing needs throughout the day.

Connection Point Think about the last time you were startled - your heart raced, you breathed faster, and you felt suddenly alert. That's your sympathetic nervous system instantly preparing you to respond to potential danger!

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

 

AP Psychology

86

Dec 3, 2025

4 pages

UNIT 2 (2.3) - Understanding the Nervous System Functions

user profile picture

Kylie Williams

@kyliewilliams_8

The nervous system is your body's command center, controlling everything from conscious thoughts to automatic functions like breathing. It's an intricate network that enables your body to sense, process, and respond to the world around you. Understanding how this system... Show more

AP PSYCHOLOGY UNIT 2 - 2.3 Overview of the
Nervous System
Nervous System:
The nervous system serves as the body's intricate electrochemical

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Overview of the Nervous System

Your nervous system is like an incredibly complex electrical wiring system that transmits information throughout your body. It has two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS) - your brain and spinal cord - and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which connects the CNS to the rest of your body.

The brain is your body's control center, where neural networks enable you to think, feel, remember, and act. These networks process massive amounts of information in milliseconds! Meanwhile, your spinal cord serves as the communication highway between your brain and body.

Reflexes are one of the coolest features of your nervous system - they're automatic responses that bypass your brain completely. When you touch something hot, your hand pulls away before you even feel pain because interneurons in your spinal cord create this lightning-fast reaction.

Did You Know? Your nervous system transmits information at speeds up to 268 miles per hour - faster than Formula 1 race cars! This incredible speed is why you can react so quickly to sudden dangers.

AP PSYCHOLOGY UNIT 2 - 2.3 Overview of the
Nervous System
Nervous System:
The nervous system serves as the body's intricate electrochemical

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Neural Communication

Think of neurons as the messengers of your body - they're specialized cells that transmit information from one part of your body to another. There are three main types that work together to create a communication network.

Sensory neurons are like scouts, constantly collecting information about your environment. They detect everything from the temperature outside to the pressure of your shoes against your feet. Interneurons are the processors - they take this information and decide what to do with it. Finally, motor neurons carry commands to your muscles and glands, telling them how to respond.

Communication between neurons happens through action potentials - electrical signals that travel down the axon like a wave. This works on an all-or-nothing principle - if a signal reaches the threshold, an action potential fires; if not, nothing happens. This system ensures clear, reliable messaging throughout your body.

When an action potential reaches the end of a neuron, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters - chemical messengers that cross the tiny gap between neurons called a synapse. These chemicals are picked up by the next neuron, continuing the signal chain. Synapses can be electrical (fast and direct) or chemical (slower but more flexible).

Brain Boost: When you're learning something new, your brain is literally creating and strengthening connections between neurons. The more you practice, the stronger these connections become!

AP PSYCHOLOGY UNIT 2 - 2.3 Overview of the
Nervous System
Nervous System:
The nervous system serves as the body's intricate electrochemical

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

The Autonomic Nervous System

Your body operates many functions automatically without you having to think about them. Your heart beats, you breathe, and your digestive system works all on their own thanks to the autonomic nervous system, a division of your peripheral nervous system.

The autonomic system has two branches that work as opposing forces: the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. Think of them as your body's gas pedal and brake. The sympathetic system the"fightorflight"responsethe "fight-or-flight" response kicks in during stressful situations - before a big test, it increases your heart rate and breathing, preparing you to face the challenge.

The parasympathetic system (the "rest and digest" response) does the opposite. After the stress passes, it helps your body return to a calm state, slowing your heart rate and allowing you to relax. This balance between the two systems helps maintain your body's equilibrium.

Test Tip: When you feel nervous before an exam, that's your sympathetic nervous system activating! Try taking slow, deep breaths to engage your parasympathetic system and calm yourself down.

AP PSYCHOLOGY UNIT 2 - 2.3 Overview of the
Nervous System
Nervous System:
The nervous system serves as the body's intricate electrochemical

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Divisions of the Nervous System

Your entire nervous system is organized into a logical hierarchy that helps coordinate all your bodily functions. At the top level, it divides into the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (everything else).

The peripheral nervous system further splits into two branches: the somatic system controls all your voluntary movements, like raising your hand in class or kicking a soccer ball. The autonomic system handles all the automatic functions you don't consciously control.

Within the autonomic system, the sympathetic division activates your body in moments of stress or excitement, while the parasympathetic division promotes relaxation and normal functioning. These systems constantly work together, adjusting your body's responses to meet your changing needs throughout the day.

Connection Point: Think about the last time you were startled - your heart raced, you breathed faster, and you felt suddenly alert. That's your sympathetic nervous system instantly preparing you to respond to potential danger!

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user