Expert: Walter Hintz - 1/24/2009

Question
QUESTION: hi
i needto know the differnce between the nervous system and hormonal system..i can only think that the horomones are transported in blood streams, however the nervous system uses electrochemical impluses. anything else?

cheers

ANSWER: Hi umayr
You have stated the difference exactly. Hormones are proteins secreted directly into the blood stream and catalyzes a reaction in a specific organ.  Nerve impulses do the same thing but at a much faster rate.  Both are control mechanisms.

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QUESTION: oh okay thankss..
1 more thing..
if i was to talk to describe the nervous system responce, what would i talk about?.. maybe about the reflex arc?

Answer
Actually the reflex arc would be a good way to do it because both sensory and motor neurons are involved. Talk about the pain or withdrawal reflex since it illustrates the need for a response right away.  The impulse goes up the cord where further response is carried out.  For example when I touch something hot I unconsciously withdraw my hand and the "ouch" that comes later comes from the brain. When I talk about pain reflexes I cite the man who hits his finger with the hammer, withdraws the finger and swears at the hammer..
 If you talk about this be sure to mention the crossed extensor reflex that is another part of the response