A nerve that carries autonomic signals away from the central nervous system is classified as a __________.

• A. visceral afferent
• B. visceral efferent
• C. somatic afferent
• D. somatic efferent

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic classification of nerves in the autonomic nervous system. Nerves can be classified based on the direction they carry signals: afferent nerves carry signals towards the central nervous system, while efferent nerves carry signals away from it.
2. Recognize the difference between somatic and visceral nerves. Somatic nerves are associated with voluntary control of body movements via skeletal muscles, while visceral nerves are associated with involuntary control of organs and glands.
3. Identify the role of efferent nerves in the autonomic nervous system. Efferent nerves are responsible for transmitting signals from the central nervous system to the peripheral organs to regulate involuntary functions.
4. Determine the correct classification for a nerve carrying autonomic signals away from the central nervous system. Since these signals are involuntary and regulate internal organs, they are classified as visceral efferent.
5. Review the options provided: visceral afferent, visceral efferent, somatic afferent, and somatic efferent. Based on the understanding of nerve classifications, select 'visceral efferent' as the correct answer.