Final answer:
The nervous system uses neurotransmitters for rapid communication between neurons, while the endocrine system utilizes hormones which travel through the bloodstream to target distant cells, leading to slower but more lasting effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nervous system works through the secretion of neurotransmitters, whereas the endocrine system works via secretion of hormones.
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that are used for rapid signaling between neurons, often resulting in immediate responses. They are secreted into synaptic clefts, where they bind to receptors on the post-synaptic neuron or effector cell such as a muscle, inducing an action almost immediately. In contrast, hormones are chemical signals produced by endocrine glands that travel through the bloodstream to distant target cells. The hormone-receptor interaction can elicit various cellular responses, but the onset is typically slower and the effects tend to be more prolonged compared to neurotransmitter action.