Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between the somatic and autonomic reflex arcs?

Accepted Answer

Somatic reflex arcs have a single motor neuron that releases acetylcholine to skeletal muscle, while autonomic reflex arcs have two motor neurons (preganglionic and postganglionic) that may release acetylcholine or norepinephrine to smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, or glands.

Question 2

A patient is given a beta-blocker to treat hypertension. What is the primary physiological effect of this drug?

Accepted Answer

It blocks beta-adrenergic receptors, decreasing the effects of norepinephrine and epinephrine on the heart, thus lowering blood pressure.

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is released by all preganglionic neurons in both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 4

Which cranial nerve is primarily responsible for parasympathetic innervation of most thoracic and abdominal organs?

Accepted Answer

Cranial nerve X (Vagus)

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why beta-blockers are contraindicated in patients with asthma?

Accepted Answer

Beta-blockers block beta-2 adrenergic receptors, which mediate bronchodilation; blocking these receptors can cause bronchoconstriction and exacerbate asthma.

Question 6

Which of the following is a complementary effect of dual innervation by the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic stimulation causes erection, while sympathetic stimulation causes ejaculation during sexual response.

Question 7

Which receptor type is found on all postganglionic neurons in both divisions of the autonomic nervous system and responds to acetylcholine?

Accepted Answer

Nicotinic receptor

Question 8

A patient takes a cold medication containing an alpha-adrenergic agonist. What is the most likely effect on blood pressure and why is there a warning for people with hypertension?

Accepted Answer

It increases blood pressure by causing vasoconstriction; warning is due to risk of exacerbating hypertension.

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the role of the adrenal medulla in the sympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

It is stimulated by preganglionic sympathetic neurons to release epinephrine and norepinephrine into the blood, amplifying the fight-or-flight response.

Question 10

Which of the following is true regarding the neurotransmitters released by postganglionic neurons in the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Postganglionic sympathetic neurons usually release norepinephrine, while postganglionic parasympathetic neurons release acetylcholine.

Question 11

Which equation correctly represents the relationship between the number of spinal nerves and their regional distribution?

Accepted Answer

$12 + 8 + 5 + 5 + 1 = 31$

Question 12

Which of the following best explains the effect of cholinergic stimulation on the heart?

Accepted Answer

It decreases heart rate by activating muscarinic acetylcholine receptors.

Question 13

Which of the following is a major function of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, and mobilizing glucose for fight-or-flight responses.

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the effect of muscarinic receptor activation in the gastrointestinal tract?

Accepted Answer

Increased motility and secretion.

Question 15

Which of the following is a real-world example of cooperative effects between sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic stimulation causes erection, and sympathetic stimulation causes ejaculation during sexual activity.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the control of the autonomic nervous system by higher brain centers?

Accepted Answer

The hypothalamus and brainstem integrate sensory input and coordinate autonomic responses.

Question 17

Which of the following is true regarding adrenergic receptors?

Accepted Answer

Alpha-adrenergic receptors generally cause vasoconstriction, while beta-adrenergic receptors can cause increased heart rate and bronchodilation.

Question 18

Which of the following equations correctly represents the calculation of total cranial and spinal nerves in the peripheral nervous system?

Accepted Answer

$12 + 31 = 43$

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why drinking coffee might help relieve asthma symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Caffeine is a beta-adrenergic agonist, stimulating bronchodilation.

P: Unit 2: Autonomic Nervous System

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