Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Reaction and Reflex?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Reaction and Reflex?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between a reaction and a reflex lies in the level of conscious control and the speed of response. Here are the key differences:

  • Reaction: A reaction is a voluntary, deliberate, and intentional response to a specific stimulus. It involves conscious thought and processing of information received from the stimulus. Reactions are generally slower and require the brain to process the information before initiating a response.
  • Reflex: A reflex is an unconscious, involuntary, and unintentional response to a stimulus on a receptor. Reflexes are instantaneous and do not involve the brain. Instead, they are controlled by the spinal cord and are designed to protect the body from harm.

In summary:

  1. Reactions are voluntary, conscious responses that involve the brain and are generally slower.
  2. Reflexes are involuntary, unconscious responses that do not involve the brain and are instantaneous.
On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Reaction and Reflex?
  • Comparative Table: Reaction vs Reflex

    • Comparative Table: Reaction vs Reflex

    The difference between reactions and reflexes can be understood through the following table:

    Feature Reactions Reflexes
    Definition Reactions are voluntary responses, involving the conscious mind. They are a result of thought processing and can be subject to anticipation and learning. Reflexes are involuntary or unintentional responses, not subject to conscious control in most cases. They are automatic, unconscious responses to specific stimuli.
    Types Reactions can be further classified into reflexes and voluntary reactions, with voluntary reactions being made up of conscious decisions. Reflexes are distinct from voluntary reactions due to their involuntary nature. They are part of the autonomic nervous system and not under direct control of the conscious mind.
    Conscious Control Reactions are under the control of the conscious mind and can be influenced by anticipation and learning. Reflexes are not under conscious control and are automatic responses to specific stimuli.
    Response Time Reactions typically involve milliseconds, as their response time is very short. Reflexes are even faster than reactions, as they are automatic and not subject to conscious processing.

    In summary, reactions are voluntary responses that involve conscious thought and decision-making, while reflexes are involuntary and unintentional responses that are not subject to conscious control and occur automatically in response to specific stimuli.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.