Question

What is reflex action? Write its types and two examples of each.

Answer 1

The process of responding to a peripheral nerve stimulation that occurs involuntarily i.e., without conscious effort or thought and requires the involvement of the spinal cord. These reflexes are very rapid, automatic, stereotyped behaviour in which the same kind of stimulus evokes for a short-lived response.

Reflex action is of two types:

1. Unconditioned reflexes: These are inborn. These include knee jerk, peristalsis, salivation on the tasting of food,e etc.

2. Conditioned reflexes: These are acquired and requires some sort of learning after birth. These include playing a musical instrument, knitting without looking, writing as well as reading, etc.