Explain how the nervous system and endocrine system differ in the way they send information around the body and the speed at which a response is produced.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
A student is revising for a Biology exam and reads that the body has two main communication systems: the nervous system and the endocrine system. She notices that the two systems work in very different ways.
Model answer (4 marks)
The nervous system uses electrical impulses that travel along neurons to transmit information. The endocrine system uses chemical messengers – hormones – that are released into the bloodstream.
In the nervous system, the impulse is directed to a specific effector such as a muscle or gland. In contrast, hormones are carried by the blood to target organs throughout the body.
Because the nervous system relies on rapid electrical conduction, the response is very fast. Hormone signalling is slower, but the effect lasts longer than the nervous response.
In the nervous system, the impulse is directed to a specific effector such as a muscle or gland. In contrast, hormones are carried by the blood to target organs throughout the body.
Because the nervous system relies on rapid electrical conduction, the response is very fast. Hormone signalling is slower, but the effect lasts longer than the nervous response.
Examiner tips
- Use the words "electrical impulses" and "hormones"; mention "bloodstream" for endocrine. Show the difference in speed – fast vs slow – and note the duration of the response. Keep each point short and to the point to fit the 4‑mark structure.
Common mistakes
- Confusing the speed of the endocrine system with the nervous system. Using vague terms like "fast" for both systems. Omitting that hormones act on target organs throughout the body.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- The nervous system uses electrical impulses (along neurones) to send information, whereas the endocrine system uses chemical messengers (hormones) transported in the bloodstream.
- The nervous system sends information to a specific effector (muscle or gland), whereas hormones are transported in the bloodstream and act on target organs throughout the body.
- The nervous system produces a very rapid response.
- The endocrine system produces a slower but longer-lasting response compared to the nervous system.
Key terms in this question
Related
- Revision notes: Coordination and control — the nervous system →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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