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15.16 Reflex action
Answers
What is Reflex Action?
Reflex is an involuntary and sudden response to stimuli. It happens to be an integral component of the famed survival instinct.
Most of the common reflexes are a response to all the well-trained, accumulated knowledge of caution that we have internalized. It could be anything and ranges from the reflex action of abruptly withdrawing the hand as it comes in contact with an extremely cold or hot object. This action is termed as the reflex action. It has a subtle relation to instinct.
A point to be thought upon is that we all have our instincts differently depending on our past experiences and understanding. A reflex is a reaction triggered by this instinct. At times, we have no prior knowledge if the pan is hot or not. In other words, instinct has little to do with reflex.
Also Refer: Types of Reflex Actions
reflex action
Reflex Arc Diagram
From an evolutionary perspective, reflex action has played an important part in ensuring the survival of organisms as it has enabled quick reactions to certain situations where an organism’s life could be at stake
The Action of Neuron
Two neurons dominate the pathway, afferent nerves (receptor) and the efferent nerves (effector or excitor).
Below is a brief description of the events that take place:
Firstly, it begins with receptor detecting the stimulus or a sudden change in the environment, where the instinct again has a role to play. The stimulus is received from a sensory organ.
Then, the sensory neuron