Reflexes
Biology: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 5.2.4
Reflex Actions
Reflex actions allow us to respond to dangerous situations rapidly and automatically. Reflex actions do not involve conscious thought. The nervous system responds to stimuli (events or things) via a reflex arc. Some examples of reflexes are:
Blinking
Sneezing
Dropping hot objects
Test yourself on Reflexes
What is not an example of a reflex action?
A person touches a hot pan and pulls their hand away immediately, without consciously deciding to move. Why does this happen?
Why are reflex actions important?
Bright light suddenly shines into a person's eyes and they blink immediately, without consciously deciding to. Why does this happen?
A person breathes in dust and sneezes immediately, without consciously deciding to. Why does this happen?