1. Nervous System: This system is responsible for fast, short-term responses to stimuli. It uses electrical impulses to transmit information rapidly throughout the body. The nervous system consists of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It allows animals to sense their environment, process information, and initiate quick actions like reflexes.
2. Hormonal System (Endocrine System): This system uses chemical messengers called hormones to regulate long-term processes like growth, development, and metabolism. Hormones are secreted by glands and travel through the bloodstream to target cells and organs. They can have a slower, more sustained effect compared to the nervous system.
Here's a table to further highlight the differences:
| Feature | Nervous System | Hormonal System |
|---|---|---|
| Speed of response | Fast | Slow |
| Duration of response | Short-term | Long-term |
| Mode of transmission | Electrical impulses | Chemical messengers (hormones) |
| Target location | Specific cells, organs, or tissues | Widespread throughout the body |
| Examples | Reflexes, voluntary movements, sensing stimuli | Growth, development, metabolism, reproduction |
Note: Both the nervous and hormonal systems work together to maintain homeostasis, which is the balance of internal conditions within an organism.