In an introductory Anatomy and Physiology context, what does the autonomic nervous system (ANS) primarily control?

• A. Higher cognitive functions such as language, memory, and problem-solving
• B. Voluntary movements of skeletal muscles, such as walking and grasping
• C. Involuntary functions of smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and glands (e.g., heart rate, digestion, and pupil diameter)
• D. Conscious perception of touch, pain, and temperature from the skin

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) by recognizing that it primarily regulates involuntary bodily functions, which are automatic and not under conscious control.
2. Step 2: Identify the types of muscles and tissues the ANS influences, which include smooth muscle (found in organs like the intestines and blood vessels), cardiac muscle (heart muscle), and glands (such as sweat and salivary glands).
3. Step 3: Differentiate the ANS from the somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles, such as walking and grasping.
4. Step 4: Recognize that higher cognitive functions like language, memory, and problem-solving are controlled by the central nervous system, particularly the brain, and are not functions of the ANS.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the ANS primarily controls involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, and pupil diameter, which are essential for maintaining homeostasis without conscious effort.