Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

Accepted Answer

Regulates unconscious processes such as cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive functions

Question 2

During a stressful situation, which division of the ANS is primarily activated, and what is its main effect on the heart?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division; increases heart rate

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine (ACh)

Question 4

A patient is given albuterol for asthma. Which receptor is targeted, and what is the expected effect?

Accepted Answer

Beta-2 adrenergic receptor; dilation of bronchioles

Question 5

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the anatomical differences between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic ganglia are located near or within the effector organs

Question 6

Which effector receives only sympathetic innervation and not parasympathetic innervation?

Accepted Answer

Sweat glands

Question 7

A drug that blocks muscarinic cholinergic receptors would most likely affect which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic control of heart rate

Question 8

Which cranial nerve carries the majority of parasympathetic output to thoracic and abdominal viscera?

Accepted Answer

Cranial nerve X (Vagus)

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why sympathetic activation has a more widespread effect than parasympathetic activation?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal medulla releases epinephrine and norepinephrine into the bloodstream

Question 10

Which receptor type is responsible for the excitatory effect on cardiac muscle during sympathetic stimulation?

Accepted Answer

Beta-1 adrenergic receptor

Question 11

A patient with hypertension is prescribed propranolol. What is the mechanism of action of this drug?

Accepted Answer

Blocks beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors

Question 12

Which of the following is a correct pathway for a visceral reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

Afferent sensory neuron → CNS processing center → Efferent motor neuron → Effector

Question 13

Which neurotransmitter is released by sympathetic postganglionic neurons onto effectors with dual innervation?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine (NE)

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the effect of alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Inhibitory, reducing motility and secretions

Question 15

Which equation best represents the relationship between heart rate and autonomic tone?

Accepted Answer

$$ HR = HR_{rest} + (Sympathetic_{activity} - Parasympathetic_{activity}) $$

Question 16

Which of the following is a characteristic of short visceral reflexes?

Accepted Answer

They bypass the CNS and occur in autonomic ganglia

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the effect of beta-2 adrenergic receptors on bronchioles?

Accepted Answer

Relaxation and dilation of airways

Question 18

Which structure is the master control center for autonomic functions, integrating input from the limbic system, thalamus, and cerebral cortex?

Accepted Answer

Hypothalamus

Question 19

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the removal of norepinephrine (NE) after its release from sympathetic postganglionic neurons?

Accepted Answer

NE removal is slower due to reuptake and breakdown by MAO and COMT

Question 20

A patient experiences increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and decreased digestive activity. Which division of the ANS is most active, and which neurotransmitter is primarily responsible?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division; norepinephrine

Autonomic Nervous System: Structure, Function, and Integration

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