Final answer:
The nervous system and endocrine system differ in the speed and duration of their effects on the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nervous system and endocrine system are both involved in maintaining homeostasis and regulating the body's functions, but they differ in how quickly and how long their effects last.
The nervous system uses electrical impulses to send messages through neurons, allowing for rapid responses to immediate changes in the environment. Its effects are fast-acting but short-lived.
The endocrine system uses hormones, which are chemical messengers released into the bloodstream. These hormones travel throughout the body, affecting cells that have receptors for them. The effects of endocrine hormones are slower to manifest but can be long-lasting, lasting for days, weeks, or even months.