Q: Which equation correctly represents the breakdown of acetylcholine (ACh) at the synaptic cleft?

$$\mathrm{ACh} \xrightarrow{\text{AChE}} \mathrm{Acetate} + \mathrm{Choline}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

It accelerates heart rate, increases blood flow to muscles, and prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses.

Question 2

Which neurotransmitter is primarily released by postganglionic neurons in the sympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine (NE)

Question 3

A patient is experiencing increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and decreased digestive activity after a car accident. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is most active?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 4

Which cranial nerve carries approximately 75% of all parasympathetic outflow?

Accepted Answer

Vagus (X)

Question 5

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the organization of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

Accepted Answer

There are two visceral neurons between the CNS and the effector organ: a preganglionic and a postganglionic neuron.

Question 6

Which of the following best explains the difference in neurotransmitter release between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions at their effector organs?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic postganglionic neurons release norepinephrine, while parasympathetic postganglionic neurons release acetylcholine.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Increased heart rate and decreased digestive activity

Question 8

Which of the following is a similarity between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Both divisions have preganglionic neurons that release acetylcholine at the ganglion.

Question 9

Which structure is responsible for the release of epinephrine and norepinephrine directly into the bloodstream during sympathetic activation?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal medulla

Question 10

A patient has damage to the lateral gray horn of the spinal cord at the sacral segments. Which autonomic function is most likely to be impaired?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic control of urination and defecation

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the pathway of a motor command from the CNS to a skeletal muscle?

Accepted Answer

Descending tract → somatic motor neuron → neuromuscular junction

Question 12

Which equation correctly represents the breakdown of acetylcholine (ACh) at the synaptic cleft?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{ACh} \xrightarrow{	ext{AChE}} \mathrm{Acetate} + \mathrm{Choline}$$

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events at a cholinergic synapse?

Accepted Answer

Action potential arrives → calcium enters synaptic knob → ACh released → ACh binds to postsynaptic receptors → sodium channels open

Question 14

Which of the following plexuses is innervated by both sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers and is responsible for regulating heart function?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac plexus

Question 15

Which type of neuron is most commonly found in the autonomic ganglia and is responsible for transmitting signals to the target organ?

Accepted Answer

Postganglionic neuron

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the effect of sympathetic activation on the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

Dilation of respiratory passageways

Question 17

Which equation best represents the relationship between the divisions of the autonomic nervous system and their effects on heart rate?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Sympathetic Activation} ightarrow \uparrow 	ext{Heart Rate}$$; $$	ext{Parasympathetic Activation} ightarrow \downarrow 	ext{Heart Rate}$$

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct pairing of a cranial nerve and its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Oculomotor (III) – Eye movements

Question 19

A patient is given a drug that inhibits monoamine oxidase (MAO). What effect would this have on sympathetic neurotransmission?

Accepted Answer

It would increase the duration of norepinephrine action at adrenergic synapses.

Autonomic Nervous System: Structure, Function, and Comparison of Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Divisions

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