Somatic Nervous System
Definition
The somatic nervous system is a part of the peripheral nervous system that facilitates voluntary movements by controlling skeletal muscles. It also mediates the reception of external stimuli, which leads to sensory perceptions.
Analogy
Imagine the somatic nervous system as a smartphone touchscreen interface. Just as you decide which app to open or what message to type through deliberate touch, your somatic nervous system allows you to decide and control your movements (like walking or picking up objects) and process sensory information (like feeling heat or cold).
Related terms
Peripheral Nervous System: The network of nerves that lies outside the central nervous system and connects it to limbs and organs.
Motor Neurons: Specialized nerve cells that originate in the spinal cord and brain and enable voluntary movement by transmitting signals from the brain to muscle fibers.
Sensory Receptors: Cells or organs specialized for detecting environmental changes or stimulus inputs, leading to sensations like touch, taste, sound, sight, and smell
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