Question

reflexes: the gag reflex. Reflexes are automatic, involuntary responses to stimuli that help protect the body and maintain homeostasis. Here, we’ll explore how the reflex arc of the nervous system works to cause a motor response in the body. A reflex arc is the name given to the mechanism that controls a specific reflex.Think of a specific example of a reflex action you have experienced. What stimulus caused the reflex to take place, and what happened afterward? Describe in detail the reflex arc that took place in your body after the stimulus. Be sure to distinguish and summarize sensation, integration, and motor response in your answer.

Write 4 simple sentences in your own words.

Answer 1

When I accidentally touched the back of my throat with food, it triggered the gag reflex.
Sensory receptors in the throat sent signals along sensory nerves to the brainstem.
The brainstem integrated that input and decided an immediate protective response was needed.
Motor signals then caused my throat and abdominal muscles to contract and push the stimulus out.