Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the Golgi tendon reflex in skeletal muscle activity?

Accepted Answer

It inhibits muscle contraction to prevent tendon damage from excessive tension.

Question 2

A patient suffers a spinal cord injury at the level of the lumbar enlargement. Which nerve plexus is most likely affected, and what is a possible consequence?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar plexus; impaired lower limb movement

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is released by preganglionic neurons of both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 4

A person touches a hot stove and immediately withdraws their hand. Which sequence correctly lists the five elements of the reflex arc involved in this response?

Accepted Answer

Receptor, sensory neuron, integration center, motor neuron, effector

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why adrenergic receptors are important in the 'fight or flight' response?

Accepted Answer

They bind norepinephrine and epinephrine to increase heart rate and blood pressure.

Question 6

A patient presents with loss of pain and temperature sensation on the right side of their body below the waist. Which spinal cord structure is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Left lateral spinothalamic tract

Question 7

Which cranial nerve is primarily responsible for transmitting auditory information from the cochlea to the brain?

Accepted Answer

Cranial nerve VIII (Vestibulocochlear)

Question 8

Which structure in the inner ear is responsible for detecting rotational movements of the head?

Accepted Answer

Crista ampullaris of the semicircular canals

Question 9

Which of the following best describes receptor adaptation in sensory physiology?

Accepted Answer

A decrease in receptor sensitivity despite continued stimulus presence

Question 10

A person is unable to focus on near objects (presbyopia). Which process is most directly impaired?

Accepted Answer

Accommodation by the lens

Question 11

Which of the following is TRUE regarding muscarinic receptors?

Accepted Answer

They are found on all parasympathetic target organs and respond to acetylcholine.

Question 12

Which pathway correctly traces the flow of visual information from the retina to the primary visual cortex?

Accepted Answer

Photoreceptors → bipolar cells → ganglion cells → optic nerve → optic chiasm → optic tract → thalamus → visual cortex

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the function of the basilar membrane in the cochlea?

Accepted Answer

It vibrates at specific frequencies to stimulate hair cells for sound detection.

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct pairing of a tactile receptor and its function?

Accepted Answer

Pacinian corpuscle – detects deep pressure and vibration

Question 15

Which of the following best explains the role of rami communicantes in the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

They carry autonomic fibers between spinal nerves and the sympathetic trunk.

Question 16

A person is exposed to a strong odor for several minutes and no longer notices it. Which physiological process explains this phenomenon?

Accepted Answer

Receptor adaptation in olfactory receptors

Question 17

Which cranial nerve is responsible for the sense of taste on the anterior two-thirds of the tongue?

Accepted Answer

Facial nerve (VII)

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of splanchnic nerves?

Accepted Answer

They carry preganglionic sympathetic fibers to collateral ganglia in the abdomen.

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct statement about the cross extensor reflex?

Accepted Answer

It results in extension of the opposite limb to support body weight during withdrawal.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the difference between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the ANS in terms of neurotransmitter release at the target organ?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic releases norepinephrine; parasympathetic releases acetylcholine.

Anatomy & Physiology Exam Study Guide: Chapters 13–15 (BIO168)

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards