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A reflex arc is the neural pathway mediating a reflex. It generally does not involve the brain. Instead of the brain it can include a spinal reflex integration center composed of interneurons to connect affector and effector signals. While the reflex generation may be initiated by nociceptive input, an extensive processing takes place within the spinal cord. The neural connection from the primary sensory neurons to the motor neurons is a poly-synaptic pathway (Andersen).
A stimulus follows the following path through the reflex arc:
Stimulus (ex.a light) -----> Sensory neuron (photoreceptors in the eyes for light) -----> Interneuron (connects neurons) ----> Motor neuron (causes pupil to dilate)
A reflex to a stimulus is almost simultaneous, as the reflex arc doesn't involve the brain at all.
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