Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference in the number of neurons between the CNS and the effector organ in the somatic nervous system versus the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

The somatic nervous system uses one neuron, while the autonomic nervous system uses two neurons (preganglionic and postganglionic).

Question 2

Where are the cell bodies of preganglionic neurons in the autonomic nervous system typically located?

Accepted Answer

In the central nervous system (CNS).

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is most commonly released by postganglionic sympathetic neurons?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine

Question 4

A patient is experiencing increased heart rate and dilated pupils. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is most likely responsible for these effects?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 5

Which of the following is a function that is generally increased during parasympathetic activity?

Accepted Answer

Digestive activity

Question 6

Which statement best describes dual innervation in the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Organs receive input from both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, often with opposing effects.

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the location of ganglia in the sympathetic division compared to the parasympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic ganglia are close to the spinal cord; parasympathetic ganglia are near or within the effector organ.

Question 8

Which of the following is an example of a cooperative effect between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions?

Accepted Answer

Both divisions stimulate salivary gland secretion, but with different types of saliva produced.

Question 9

A drug blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. Which physiological effect would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Reduced parasympathetic effects such as decreased salivation and slowed gut motility

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the general effect of the sympathetic division compared to the parasympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic effects are widespread and long-lasting; parasympathetic effects are localized and short-lived.

Question 11

Which equation correctly represents the relationship between the number of neurons in the autonomic pathway from CNS to effector organ?

Accepted Answer

$$n_{autonomic} = n_{preganglionic} + n_{postganglionic}$$

Question 12

A patient is unable to sweat in response to heat. Which part of the autonomic nervous system is most likely impaired?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 13

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the neurotransmitters released by preganglionic neurons in both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions?

Accepted Answer

Both sympathetic and parasympathetic preganglionic neurons release acetylcholine.

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the effect of the autonomic nervous system on cardiac muscle?

Accepted Answer

Both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions innervate cardiac muscle, with opposing effects.

Question 15

During a stressful event, which equation best represents the change in heart rate ($$HR) $$due to sympathetic stimulation?

Accepted Answer

$$HR_{final} = HR_{rest} + \Delta HR_{sympathetic}$$

Question 16

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the somatic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Dual innervation of effectors

Question 17

A person is exposed to a toxin that blocks all autonomic ganglia. Which of the following effects would most likely occur?

Accepted Answer

Loss of all autonomic functions, such as heart rate regulation and digestive activity

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the difference in conscious control between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

Somatic is under conscious control; autonomic is largely unconscious.

Question 19

Which of the following organs receives both sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation?

Accepted Answer

Heart

Question 20

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates an opposite effect of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic increases heart rate; parasympathetic decreases heart rate.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): Structure, Function, and Comparison

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