Multiple Choice
In the peripheral nervous system, which functional classification of neurons carries signals from the central nervous system to initiate skeletal muscle contraction and activate glands?
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13. The Peripheral Nervous System
Introduction to the Peripheral Nervous System
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In an introductory anatomy context, what structures does the peripheral nervous system (PNS) consist of?
A
Only the autonomic nervous system (sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions)
B
Only the brain and spinal cord
C
All neural tissue outside the brain and spinal cord, including cranial nerves, spinal nerves, and associated ganglia
D
Only sensory receptors and special sense organs (e.g., retina and cochlea)
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the definition of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). The PNS includes all neural structures outside the brain and spinal cord.
Step 2: Identify the components of the PNS. These include cranial nerves, spinal nerves, and associated ganglia, which connect the central nervous system (CNS) to limbs and organs.
Step 3: Differentiate the PNS from the Central Nervous System (CNS). The CNS consists only of the brain and spinal cord, so it is not part of the PNS.
Step 4: Recognize that the autonomic nervous system (ANS), including sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, is a functional subdivision of the PNS, but the PNS is broader than just the ANS.
Step 5: Note that sensory receptors and special sense organs (like the retina and cochlea) are related to sensory input but are not considered part of the PNS itself.
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