Describe how the nervous system and the hormonal system differ in the way they send signals around the body. In your answer, refer to the speed of response, the type of messenger used, and how long the effects last.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (5 marks)
The nervous system uses electrical signals (nerve impulses) that travel along neurones, whereas the hormonal system uses chemical messengers (hormones) carried in the bloodstream to target organs.
Because nerve impulses are rapid, the nervous system produces a faster response than the hormonal system.
Hormones act over a longer period, so their effects last longer than the brief effects of nerve impulses.
The nervous system usually produces a localised or specific response, acting on one effector such as a single muscle or gland.
Hormones can affect target organs throughout the body and may influence multiple organs simultaneously.
Because nerve impulses are rapid, the nervous system produces a faster response than the hormonal system.
Hormones act over a longer period, so their effects last longer than the brief effects of nerve impulses.
The nervous system usually produces a localised or specific response, acting on one effector such as a single muscle or gland.
Hormones can affect target organs throughout the body and may influence multiple organs simultaneously.
Examiner tips
- Use the exact terms ‘nerve impulses’ and ‘hormones’. Mention speed, messenger type, duration and localisation. Keep each point brief and separate with a line break.
Common mistakes
- Confusing electrical signals with chemical messengers. Saying hormones are released directly into the target organ instead of the bloodstream. Forgetting to note that hormone effects are longer‑lasting than nerve impulses.
Mark scheme (5 marks)
- The nervous system uses electrical signals / nerve impulses (whereas the hormonal system uses chemical messengers / hormones)
- Hormones are transported in the bloodstream to target organs (whereas nerve impulses travel along neurones)
- The nervous system produces a faster response than the hormonal system
- The effects of hormones last longer than the effects of nerve impulses
- The nervous system produces a localised / specific response (to one effector / muscle or gland), whereas hormones affect target organs throughout the body / can affect multiple organs
Related
- All Eduqas A-Level Biology revision notes →
- How to answer a "Describe" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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