Describe the steps in a reflex arc.

This question was made using AQA specifications.
The reflex arc is a series of events connecting a stimulus to a response. The stimulus, for example a hand touching a hot pan, stimulates the receptor, which could be the sensory receptors in the fingertips. This information travels along a sensory neurone to the coordinator, for example the grey matter of spinal cord. The relay neurone sends information to the relevant motor neurone, which in this scenario stimulates the biceps to contract and withdraw the hand from the potentially harmful hot pan stimulus. The relay neurone also sends messages to the brain so that it is aware of the action taking place.

FA
Answered by Frances A. Biology tutor

4470 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Name and describe the features of the type of blood vessel which takes high pressure blood from the heart to other parts of the body


Name two types of effectors in the body, and the response that effector makes


How can leaching cause bad smells in lakes?


I am having trouble learning Mitosis, could you explain it for me please?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning