Which of the following is NOT an example of sympathetic stimulation?

• A. Bronchodilation
• B. Dilation of the pupils
• C. Increased sweating
• D. Decreased heart rate

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, which prepares the body to respond to stress or danger. It generally increases activity in organs that help with immediate survival and decreases activity in organs not essential for immediate action.
2. Step 2: Review the physiological effects of sympathetic stimulation. Common effects include bronchodilation (to increase airflow to the lungs), dilation of the pupils (to enhance vision), increased heart rate (to pump more blood to muscles), and increased sweating (to regulate body temperature during stress).
3. Step 3: Analyze the options provided in the question. Bronchodilation, dilation of the pupils, and increased sweating are all consistent with sympathetic stimulation. However, decreased heart rate is not; it is typically associated with parasympathetic stimulation, which promotes 'rest and digest' activities.
4. Step 4: Compare the correct answer (decreased heart rate) with the physiological effects of the sympathetic nervous system. Since decreased heart rate is contrary to the typical 'fight or flight' response, it is not an example of sympathetic stimulation.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'decreased heart rate' because it does not align with the physiological effects of sympathetic stimulation, which generally increases heart rate to support the body's response to stress.