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    NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter 21 Neural Control and Coordination

    NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter 21 Neural Control and Coordination

    Irshad AnwarUpdated on 28 Jan 2026, 11:05 AM IST

    The NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter 21 Neural Control and Coordination are prepared by experts to help students prepare well. These answers describe every topic step by step, which makes it simpler to prepare for Class 11 examinations and entrance tests. The NCERT Exemplar Solutions explain how the human nervous system functions, such as the structure and function of neurons, synapses, reflex actions, central and peripheral nervous systems, and how our sense organs help in coordination.

    This Story also Contains

    1. Access NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Chapter 21 (Multiple Choice Questions)
    2. Find Answers to the NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Chapter 21 (Long Questions)
    3. Access Answers to the NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter 21 (Short Questions)
    4. NCERT Exemplar for Chapter 21 Neural Control and Coordination (Very Short Answer Type Questions)
    5. Approach to Solve Questions of NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter 21
    6. Important Topic of Neural Control and Coordination Class 11 NCERT Exemplar
    7. Advantages of NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Chapter 21 Solutions
    8. Important Questions of Neural Control and Coordination Class 11 NCERT Exemplar
    9. NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter Wise
    NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter 21 Neural Control and Coordination
    NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter 21 Neural Control and Coordination

    By referring to these NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Chapter 21, students are able to learn key concepts and easily revise important information before exams. The solutions provide various types of questions, such as MCQs, short and long answers, as well as useful diagrams. By solving these questions, students are able to establish comprehensive knowledge and perform well in their exams. The NCERT exemplar class 11 biology is also helpful in gaining an understanding of the chapter, hence proving to be extremely useful in exam preparation.

    Access NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Chapter 21 (Multiple Choice Questions)

    The detailed answers to the MCQ solutions are given below:

    Question:1

    Chemicals that are released at the synaptic junction are called
    (a) Hormones
    (b) Neurotransmitters
    (c) Cerebrospinal fluid
    (d) Lymph

    Answer:

    The answer is option (b), Neurotransmitters

    Explanation: Neurotransmitters facilitate the transmission of impulses at the synaptic junction.

    Question:2

    The potential difference across the resting membrane is negatively charged. This is due to the differential distribution of the following ions
    a. Na+ and K+ ions
    b. CO3++ and Cl- ions
    c. Ca++ and Mg++ ions
    d. Ca4+ and Cl- ions

    Answer:

    The potential difference across the resting membrane is negative. This is due to the differential distribution of Na+ and K+ ions.

    Question:3

    Resting membrane potential is maintained by
    (a) Hormones
    (b) Neurotransmitters
    (c) Ion pumps
    (d) None of the above

    Answer:

    The answer is option (c) Ion pumps

    Explanation: In a resting neuron, there exist concentration gradients across the resting membrane for Na+ & K+. The ionic gradients are maintained by Ion pumps (Na-K pumps).

    Question:4

    The function of our visceral organs is controlled by

    (a) Sympathetic and somatic neural system
    (b) Sympathetic and parasympathetic neural system
    (c) Central and somatic nervous system
    (d) None of the above

    Answer:

    The answer is option (b), the Sympathetic and parasympathetic neural system

    Explanation: Option (a) is related to the peripheral nervous system, and option (c) is not related to the regulation of visceral organs. But option (b) controls the functioning of visceral organs.

    Question:5

    Which of the following is not involved in the Knee reflex?
    (a) Muscle spindle
    (b) Motor neuron
    (c) Brain
    (d) Inter neurons

    Answer:

    The answer is option (c) Brain

    Explanation: Muscle spindles, motor neurons, and interneurons are part of the reflex arch, unlike the brain.

    Question:6

    An area in the brain that is associated with strong emotions is
    (a) Cerebral cortex
    (b) Cerebellum
    (c) Limbic system
    (d) Medulla

    Answer:

    The answer is option (c) Limbic system

    Explanation: The limbic system, along with the hypothalamus, is associated with emotions.

    Question:7

    Mark the vitamin present in Rhodopsin
    (a) Vit A
    (b) Vit B
    (c) Vit C
    (d) Vit D

    Answer:

    The answer is option (a) Vit A

    Explanation: Rhodopsin is related to eye vision, and vitamin A is directly related to vision.

    Question:8

    Human eyeball consists of three layers, and it encloses
    (a) Lens, iris, optic nerve
    (b) Lens, aqueous humor, and vitreous humor
    (c) Cornea, lens, iris
    (d) Cornea, lens, optic nerve

    Answer:

    The answer is option (b) Lens, aqueous humor, and vitreous humor

    Explanation: The Human eyeball has three layers- sclera, choroid, and retina. These three layers enclose the lens, aqueous humor, and vitreous humor.

    Question:9

    Wax gland present in the ear canal is called
    (a) Sweat gland
    (b) Prostate gland
    (c) Cowper's gland
    (d) Sebaceous gland/ ceruminous gland

    Answer:

    The answer is option (d) Cowper's gland

    Explanation: Other glands are not related to the ear.

    Question:10

    The part of the internal ear responsible for hearing is
    (a) Cochlea
    (b) Semicircular canal
    (c) Utriculus
    (d) Sacculus

    Answer:

    The answer is option (a) Cochlea

    Explanation: The Cochlea is the inner part of the ear that facilitates hearing.

    Question:11

    The organ of Corti is a structure present in
    (a) External ear
    (b) Middle ear
    (c) Semi-circular canal
    (d) Cochlea

    Answer:

    The answer is option (d) Cochlea

    Explanation: The Organ of Corti is present at the sensory ridge present at the basilar membrane, which is present in the cochlea.

    Find Answers to the NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Chapter 21 (Long Questions)

    Question:1

    Explain the process of the transport and release of a neurotransmitter with the help of a labelled diagram showing a complete neuron, axon terminal, and synapse.

    Answer:

    Neurotransmitters help in the transmission of impulses at the junction between two neurons, called a chemical synapse. In the synapse, there exist synaptic vesicles in the axon terminal called a synaptic knob. These vessels contain neurotransmitters. The impulses from the nerves reach the axon terminal and travel through it as electrical signals. When the impulse reaches the end of the axon, it picks up the neurotransmitters present in it and attaches them to the chemo-receptors that are present on the dendrite membrane of the next neuron. This attachment of chemicals (acetylcholine) with chemo-receptors leads to depolarization of the membrane, generating a nerve impulse across the nerve fiber. Acetylcholine is inactivated and hydrolyzed by the enzyme found in the postsynaptic membrane- acetylcholinesterase. The hydrolyses facilitate the repolarization of the membrane.

    neurotransmitter

    Question:2

    Name the parts of the human forebrain, indicating their respective functions.

    Answer:

    The forebrain comprises the cerebrum, thalamus, and hypothalamus. Their functions are as follows:

    Cerebrum:

    It has motor and sensory functions.

    Thalamus:

    It helps in coordination and motor signalling.

    Hypothalamus:

    It helps in maintaining the body temperature and also the regulation of feelings like hunger and thirst.

    Question:3

    Explain the structure of the middle and internal ear with the help of a diagram.

    Answer:

    The structure of the human ear is divided into three parts- the external ear, the middle ear, and the internal ear.

    human ear

    Structure of the Middle Ear: The middle ear is composed of three bones or ossicles- malleus, incus, and stapes. All three bones are attached to each other in a chain-like manner. The malleus is attached to the tympanic membrane, and the stapes is attached to a membrane of the cochlea called the oval window. The tympanic membrane is the one that separates the middle ear from the external ear. It is also called the eardrum. Not only that, but it also helps in catching the sound waves and transmitting them to the bony ossicles. From the bony ossicles, the waves are transferred to the inner ear. The eustachian tube connects the pharynx to the middle ear. tympanic membrane and bony ossicles. The tympanic membrane separates the middle ear from the external ear, and the middle ear is connected to the pharynx by the eustachian tube.

    middle ear

    Structure of Inner Ear: The Inner ear is composed of a fluid-filled chamber called the labyrinth. It is divided into two parts- an outer bony labyrinth and an inner membranous labyrinth. The bony labyrinth consists of channels filled with a fluid called endolymph. The portion that is coiled in the labyrinth is the cochlea. The cochlea consists of two large ear canals- the upper vestibular canal and the lower vestibular canal. The two canals are separated by a cochlear duct. Semi-circular canals help in maintaining balance and posture of the body, and the cochlea helps in sending audio signals to the brain.

    Access Answers to the NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter 21 (Short Questions)

    Question:1

    human neural system

    Answer:

    human neural system

    Question:2

    What is the difference between electrical transmission and chemical transmission?

    Answer:

    Electrical transmission

    Chemical transmission

    (i) Transmission takes place in the form of electric potential.

    (i) Transmission takes place through chemicals.

    (ii) It transmits the signals in the neural system.

    (ii) It transmits the signals in the hormonal system.

    (iii) It transmits faster.

    (iii) It transmits more slowly.

    Question:3

    The neural system and computers share certain common features. Comment in five lines. (Hint: CPU, input-output devices).

    Answer:

    1. The brain is the controlling and command center, just like the CPU (central processing unit) in a computer system.

    2. The sense organs are like the input devices of a computer system.

    3. Eyes and ears can be related to a web camera, scanner, and headphones.

    4. Nerves are just like the cable wires in a computer.

    5. The responses of the body are like the output material of the computer.

    Question:4

    If someone receives a blow on the back of the neck, what would be the effect on the person's CNS?

    Answer:

    A blow on the back of the neck can cause serious damage to the medulla oblongata and the spinal cord, which in turn can cause serious problems in the normal functioning of the respiratory, cardiovascular, and gastric systems. It can also cause paralysis.

    Question:5

    What is the function described to the Eustachian tube?

    Answer:

    The eustachian tube helps in equalizing pressures on both sides of the eardrum, and it is also involved in the reception and transmission of sound waves into the internal ear.

    Question:6

    Label the following parts in the given diagram using arrows.
    (a) Aqueous chamber
    (b) Cornea
    (c) Lens
    (d) Retina
    (e) Vitreous chamber
    (f) Blind spoteye

    Answer:

    human eye

    NCERT Exemplar for Chapter 21 Neural Control and Coordination (Very Short Answer Type Questions)

    Question:1

    Rearrange the following in the correct order of involvement in electrical impulse movement: Synaptic knob, dendrites, cell body, Axon terminal, Axon.

    Answer:

    Dendrites, Cell body, Axon, Axon terminal, Synaptic knob.

    Question:2

    Comment on the role of the ear in maintaining the balance of the body and posture.

    Answer:

    The vestibular apparatus present in the internal ear consists of the semicircular canals and otolith. The semi-circular canals send signals to the brain in order to maintain balance and posture of the body.

    Question:3

    Which cells of the retina enable us to see coloured objects around us?

    Answer:

    Cone cells

    Question:4

    Arrange the following in the order of reception and transmission of sound waves from the eardrum: Cochlear nerve, external auditory canal, eardrum, stapes, incus, malleus, and cochlea.

    Answer:

    External auditory canal, Eardrum, Malleus, Incus, Stapes, Cochlea, Cochlear nerve.

    Question:5

    During resting potential, the axonal membrane is polarised, indicating the movement of +ve and -ve ions leading to polarization diagrammatically.

    Answer:

    axonal membrane

    Question:6

    Name the structures involved in the protection of the brain.

    Answer:

    The skull and Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF).

    Question:7

    Our reactions, like aggressive behavior, use of abusive words, restlessness, etc., are regulated by the brain; name the parts involved.

    Answer:

    The limbic system and hypothalamus is related to emotions.

    Question:8

    What do grey and white matter in the brain represent?

    Answer:

    The outer region of the cerebrum is composed of grey matter, which is also called the cerebral cortex. The grey matter represents the high concentration of cell bodies of the neuron. The inner region of the cerebrum is composed of white matter, which is also called the cerebral medulla. The white matter represents the high concentration of axons, which gives it a lighter appearance. Hence, the medulla is lighter in color and is called white matter.

    Question:9

    Where is the hunger center located in the human brain?

    Answer:

    The hunger center is located in the Hypothalamus in the human brain.

    Question:10

    Which sensory organ is involved in vertigo (sensation of oneself or objects spinning around)?

    Answer:

    Ears: semi-circular canals in the internal ears are involved in the sense of vertigo.

    Question:11

    While travelling at a higher altitude, a person complains of dizziness and a vomiting sensation. Which part of the inner ear is disturbed during the journey?

    Answer:

    Semi-circular canal

    Question:12

    Complete the statement by choosing the appropriate match among the following-

    (a) Resting potential

    (i) chemicals involved in the transmission of impulses at synapses.

    (b) Nerve impulse

    (ii) Gap between the pre-synaptic and post-synaptic neurons

    (c) Synaptic cleft

    (iii) electrical potential difference across the resting neural membrane

    (d) Neurotransmitters

    (iv) an electrical wave-like response of a neuron to a stimulation.

    Answer:

    (a)-(iii)

    (b)-(iv)

    (c)-(ii)

    (d)-(i)

    Also, check the NCERT Books and the NCERT Syllabus here

    Approach to Solve Questions of NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter 21

    Breaking down complex topics like neurons, synapses, and brain functions into simple parts makes it easier to understand and remember. Drawing diagrams, memorising sequences like nerve impulse transmission, and practising application-based questions help in answering both straightforward and tricky questions confidently.

    • Read the Neural Control and Coordination Class 11 NCERT Exemplar carefully to understand neuron structure, synapse, and brain parts.

    • Practice labelled diagrams of neurons, synapses, the brain, and sense organs.

    • Memorise the steps of nerve impulse transmission and the reflex arc.

    • Understand the differences between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.

    • Solve all NCERT exemplar solutions for class 11, focusing on reasoning and application.

    Also, read the NCERT Solution subject-wise

    Important Topic of Neural Control and Coordination Class 11 NCERT Exemplar

    Below are the important topics from the chapter that students can go through to help them in the CBSE board exams, as well as other entrance exams:

    • Structure and Function of a Neuron
    • Nerve Impulse Transmission
    • Synapse and Neurotransmitters
    • Central and Peripheral Nervous System
    • Reflex Action and Reflex Arc
    • Sense Organs (Eye, Ear)
    • Brain Structure and Functions
    • Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Systems
    • Neuromuscular Junction and Excitation–Contraction Coupling
    • Ion Channel Types and Gating Mechanisms

    NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Solutions

    Advantages of NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Chapter 21 Solutions

    The Neural Control and Coordination chapter explains how the nervous system controls body functions through neurons, synapses, and neural impulses. Solving exemplar questions offers several advantages to students, some of which are mentioned below:

    • NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Chapter 21 Solutions gives a strong understanding of the structure of neurons, synaptic transmission, and conduction of nerve impulses.
    • These questions improve the ability to answer diagram-based questions based on parts of the brain, reflex arcs, and neural pathways.
    • Students will learn how to write answers in the correct format in the exam, improving scores in both school exams and competitive exams like NEET.
    • Regular practice will increase the visual memory and improve retention of concepts, which boosts confidence in solving conceptual and application-based questions.
    • Solving different types of questions improves problem-solving skills and reduces stress.

    Important Questions of Neural Control and Coordination Class 11 NCERT Exemplar

    Neural Control and Coordination is an important chapter for NEET as it explains how the nervous system functions, including nerve impulse transmission, reflexes, and sense organs. Practising previous years’ questions helps students focus on key concepts and understand the type of questions frequently asked in exams.

    Question 1: Which of the following is not involved in the Knee reflex?

    Option 1. Muscle spindle

    Option 2. Motor neuron

    Option 3. Brain

    Option 4. Inter neurons

    Answer:

    An automatic response channel that does not directly engage the brain is known as the reflex arc. It consists of parts, including motor neurons, which send signals to muscles for contraction, interneurons, which let sensory and motor neurons in the spinal cord communicate, and muscle spindles, which sense changes in muscle length.

    Hence, the correct answer is option (3) Brain

    Question 2: Resting membrane potential is maintained by

    Option 1. Hormones

    Option 2. Neurotransmitters

    Option 3. Ion pumps

    Option 4. None of the above

    Answer:

    The sodium-potassium pump and leak channels are examples of ion pumps and channels that preserve a cell's resting membrane potential:
    Potassium-sodium pump
    For every ATP molecule, this pump transports two potassium ions into the cell and three sodium ions out of it. The potassium ion concentration gradient produced by this action adds to the resting membrane potential.

    Hence, the correct answer is option (3): Ion pumps.

    Question 3: The Potential difference across the resting membrane is negatively charged. This is due to the differential distribution of the following ions.

    Option 1. Na+ and K+ ions

    Option 2. CO32-and Cl- ions

    Option 3. Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions

    Option 4. Ca2+ and Cl- ions

    Answer:

    The potential difference across the resting membrane is negative. This is due to the differential distribution of Na+ and K+ ions. The electrical charge differential across a cell membrane caused by the combined forces of ions and their permeability is known as the membrane potential. It is essential for both cellular communication and general bodily processes.

    Hence, the correct answer is option (1) Na+ and K+ ions.

    Question 4: Which part of the neuron is responsible for receiving impulses from other neurons?

    Option 1. Axon

    Option 2. Dendrites

    Option 3. Cell body

    Option 4. Axon terminal

    Answer:

    Dendrites are short, branched extensions of the neuron that receive nerve impulses from sensory receptors or other neurons and transmit them toward the cell body. They increase the surface area for receiving signals.

    Hence, the correct answer is option (2) Dendrites.

    Question 5: Which neurotransmitter is released at the neuromuscular junction?

    Option 1. Dopamine

    Option 2. Acetylcholine

    Option 3. Noradrenaline

    Option 4. Serotonin

    Answer:

    At the neuromuscular junction, motor neurons release acetylcholine, which binds to receptors on the muscle fiber membrane and initiates muscle contraction.

    Hence, the correct answer is option (2) Acetylcholine.

    Must Read NCERT Notes subject-wise

    NCERT Exemplar Class 11 Biology Solutions Chapter Wise

    The NCERT exemplar chapter-wise solutions for class 11 biology are given below-

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 1 The Living World

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 2 Biological Classification

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 3 Plant Kingdom

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 4 Animal Kingdom

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 5 Morphology of Flowering Plants

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 6 Anatomy of Flowering Plants

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 7 Structural Organisation in Animals

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 8 Cell The Unit of Life

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 9 Biomolecules

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 10 Cell Cycle and Cell Division

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 11 Transport in Plants

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 12 Mineral Nutrition

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 13 Photosynthesis in Higher Plants

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 14 Respiration in Plants

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 16 Digestion and Absorption

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 17 Breathing and Exchange of Gases

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 18 Body Fluids and Circulation

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 19 Excretory Products and their Elimination

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 20 Locomotion and Movement

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 21 Neural Control and Coordination

    NCERT Exemplar Solutions for Class 11 Biology Chapter 22 Chemical Coordination and Integration

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q: What is neural control and coordination, and why is it important?
    A:

    Neural control and coordination refer to the processes by which the nervous system and endocrine system work together to regulate and integrate the activities of different organs, ensuring the body functions in a synchronised and efficient manner.

    Q: What are the main divisions of the human nervous system?
    A:

    The human nervous system is divided into:

    • Central Nervous System (CNS): Consists of the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing and controlling information.
    • Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Comprises cranial and spinal nerves connecting the CNS to the rest of the body, and is further divided into the somatic and autonomic nervous systems (the latter includes sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions)
    Q: What is the structure of a neuron and how does it transmit nerve impulses?
    A:

    A neuron has a cell body (soma), dendrites (receive signals), and an axon (transmits signals). Nerve impulses are transmitted through changes in membrane potential (resting potential, action potential) and pass between neurons via synapses using neurotransmitters.

    Q: What is a reflex action and what is the reflex arc?
    A:

    A reflex action is an automatic, involuntary response to a stimulus, mediated by the nervous system. The reflex arc is the pathway followed by nerve impulses during a reflex action, involving at least one sensory (afferent) neuron, one interneuron (in the CNS), and one motor (efferent) neuron.

    Q: How do the neural and endocrine systems differ in coordinating body functions?
    A:

    The neural system provides rapid, point-to-point coordination through electrical impulses and neurotransmitters, while the endocrine system coordinates body functions more slowly using hormones released into the bloodstream for chemical integration.

    Q: What are the different types of neurons and their functions?
    A:
    • Sensory Neurons: Transmit impulses from sensory organs to the CNS

    • Motor Neurons: Carry commands from the CNS to muscles/glands

    • Interneurons: Connect sensory and motor neurons within the CNS

    Q: How does the brain control voluntary and involuntary actions?
    A:
    • Voluntary actions (e.g., walking) are controlled by the cerebrum

    • Involuntary actions (e.g., heartbeat) are regulated by the medulla oblongata and autonomic nervous system

    Q: hat are the functions of the cerebrum and cerebellum?
    A:
    • Cerebrum: Controls thinking, memory, voluntary movements, and sensory perception

    • Cerebellum: Maintains posture, balance, and coordination of movements

    Q: What is the difference between the central and peripheral nervous system?
    A:
    • CNS: Composed of the brain and spinal cord, processes information

    • PNS: Comprises nerves outside the CNS, transmitting signals between the CNS and the body

    Q: How do reflex actions work in the human body?
    A:

    Reflex actions are automatic and quick responses to stimuli, controlled by the spinal cord through a reflex arc (e.g., pulling your hand away from a hot object).

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