Assignment 1 Semester 1 2026
Unique number: 111217
Due Date: March 2026
Question 1
The Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) are the two
main parts of the human nervous system. The CNS consists of the brain and the spinal cord,
and it functions as the main control centre of the body. It receives information from the body,
processes it and sends instructions to different organs and muscles so that the body can
respond appropriately (PYC1512 Study Unit 1, p. 3)
The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) includes all the nerves that extend from the brain and
spinal cord to other parts of the body. These nerves carry sensory information to the CNS
and motor messages from the CNS to the rest of the body, allowing communication between
the central nervous system and other body structures (PYC1512 Study Unit 1, p. 3)
Therefore, the main difference is that the CNS acts as the control centre, while the PNS
connects the CNS with the rest of the body and transmits information between them.
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Question 1
The Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) are the
two main parts of the human nervous system. The CNS consists of the brain and the
spinal cord, and it functions as the main control centre of the body. It receives information
from the body, processes it and sends instructions to different organs and muscles so that
the body can respond appropriately (PYC1512 Study Unit 1, p. 3)
The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) includes all the nerves that extend from the brain
and spinal cord to other parts of the body. These nerves carry sensory information to the
CNS and motor messages from the CNS to the rest of the body, allowing communication
between the central nervous system and other body structures (PYC1512 Study Unit 1, p.
3)
Therefore, the main difference is that the CNS acts as the control centre, while the PNS
connects the CNS with the rest of the body and transmits information between them.
Question 2
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls automatic body functions that occur
without conscious effort. One function of the ANS is to regulate internal organs such as
the heart, stomach and intestines. Another function is to prepare the body for action in
situations of stress or danger through the sympathetic nervous system and restore the
body to a relaxed state through the parasympathetic nervous system (PYC1512 Study
Unit 1, p. 3–4)
Question 3
Epigenetic changes refer to changes in the way genes are expressed without altering the
actual DNA structure. In other words, epigenetics affects whether certain genes are
activated or deactivated while the genetic code itself remains the same (PYC1512 Study
Unit 1, p. 2)
Disclaimer
Great care has been taken in the preparation of this document; however, the contents are provided "as is"
without any express or implied representations or warranties. The author accepts no responsibility or
liability for any actions taken based on the information contained within this document. This document is
intended solely for comparison, research, and reference purposes. Reproduction, resale, or transmission
of any part of this document, in any form or by any means, is strictly prohibited.