Which function is the somatic nervous system responsible for?

• A. Regulating heart rate
• B. Voluntary muscle control
• C. Managing blood vessel dilation
• D. Controlling digestive processes

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the somatic nervous system: It is part of the peripheral nervous system responsible for voluntary control of body movements via skeletal muscles.
2. Differentiate between voluntary and involuntary functions: Voluntary functions are those that you can consciously control, such as moving your arm or leg.
3. Identify the functions listed in the problem: Regulating heart rate, managing blood vessel dilation, and controlling digestive processes are all involuntary functions controlled by the autonomic nervous system.
4. Recognize that voluntary muscle control is the function associated with the somatic nervous system, as it involves conscious control over skeletal muscles.
5. Conclude that the somatic nervous system is responsible for voluntary muscle control, distinguishing it from the autonomic nervous system, which manages involuntary functions.