OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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What does the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) primarily consist of?

  1. Nerves and blood vessels

  2. Only sensory neurons

  3. Glands and hormones

  4. Nerves that connect receptors to the CNS

The correct answer is: Nerves that connect receptors to the CNS

The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) is primarily composed of nerves that connect various parts of the body to the Central Nervous System (CNS). This includes sensory neurons that relay information from sensory receptors—like those that respond to touch, temperature, and pain—to the brain and spinal cord. Additionally, the PNS includes motor neurons that transmit signals from the CNS to muscles and glands, facilitating movement and responses to stimuli. Understanding that the PNS is not limited to only sensory neurons or restricted to components like glands and hormones clarifies its broader role in the nervous system. The PNS enables communication between the body's various systems and the brain, contributing to the overall function of the nervous system beyond just the central components housed within the skull and spine. This extensive network of nerves is essential for carrying out voluntary and involuntary actions in response to internal and external signals.