What is the difference between the nervous system and the hormonal system?

The biggest difference between the two is that the nervous system uses electrical impulses to send signals through neurones, whereas the hormonal system uses chemical messengers transported into blood plasma to target cells. Transmission by the nervous system is short-lived but quick, whereas transmission by the hormonal system is long-lasting but takes much longer. This means that communication is faster when using the nervous system. In the nervous system, responses are localised - whereas in the hormonal system, they are widespread. Responses are often permanent in the hormonal system, but temporary and reversible in the nervous system.

JH
Answered by James H. Biology tutor

207921 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does acetylcholine transmit the nervous impulse across a synapse?


Outline the key structural differences between mRNA and DNA molecules and how do these contribute to their different functions?


A myelinated axon conducts impulses faster than a non-myelinated axon. Explain this difference:


What happens in the light dependent reaction in photosynthesis?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences