MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach) The Nervous System
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Aug 28, 2025 Dive into the fascinating world of the nervous system! Explore the organization of central and peripheral divisions and their critical functions. Uncover the roles of the brain's forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain, and learn about cutting-edge brain imaging techniques. Delve into how neurons transmit signals and discover the intricacies of neurotransmitters and their impact on conditions like schizophrenia and depression. Plus, insights into the brain's role in addiction and the effects of various drug classes make for an enlightening listen!
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Two-Level Nervous System Organization
- The nervous system splits into central (brain, spinal cord) and peripheral (everything else) divisions.
- The peripheral system divides into autonomic (involuntary) and somatic (voluntary) branches.
Memorize Autonomic Roles With Mnemonics
- Remember sympathetic = fight-or-flight and parasympathetic = rest-and-digest.
- Use vivid mnemonics like 'sympathetic = snake = fight/flight' to lock them into memory.
Three Major Brain Divisions And Roles
- Brain divides into forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain with specific roles.
- Forebrain handles higher functions; midbrain handles sensory/motor/arousal; hindbrain manages vital autonomic and motor coordination.