ch11_nervous system.docVIP

Chapter 11 Nervous System II: Divisions of the Nervous System Name the layers of the meninges and explain their functions. The layers of the meninges surround the brain and spinal cord. They are, from the outermost to the innermost layers: Dura mater—The dura mater is a tough, fibrous connective tissue layer containing many blood vessels and nerves. It functions as a protective layer, surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Arachnoid mater—The arachnoid mater is a thin weblike membrane that lacks blood vessels and nerves. It is attached to the pia mater by thin strands. Pia mater—The pia mater is a thin membrane containing many nerves and blood vessels that provide nourishment to the underlying brain cells and spinal cord. It is attached directly to the surface of the brain and spinal cord. Describe the location of cerebrospinal fluid within the meninges. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is found between the arachnoid and pia mater of the brain and spinal cord in the space called the subarachnoid space. Describe the location of the ventricles of the brain. The lateral ventricles (first and second ventricles) extend into the cerebra hemispheres and occupy part of the frontal, temporal, and occipital lobes. The third ventricle is found in the midline of the brain, below the corpus callosum, and connects the lateral ventricles through openings in the anterior ends. The fourth ventricle is found in the brain stem in front of the cerebellum. The cerebral aqueduct connects openings in its roof that lead into the subarachnoid space of the meninges. Explain how cerebrospinal fluid is produced and how it functions. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is secreted by tiny reddish cauliflower-like masses of specialized capillaries in the pia mater called choroid plexuses that project into the ventricles. CSF is important in the protection and support of the CNS by absorbing the forces of impact, maintaining a stable ion concentration, and providing a route for waste products to be removed. Descr