Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main difference between the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS) in terms of structure and function?

Accepted Answer

The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS includes all neural tissue outside the CNS; the CNS processes information and the PNS transmits signals to and from the CNS.

Question 2

A patient presents with loss of sensation in the right arm and difficulty moving the right hand. Which part of the nervous system is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

The left primary motor cortex and left somatosensory cortex in the cerebrum.

Question 3

Which equation correctly represents the calculation of the conduction velocity ($v$) of a nerve impulse, given the distance ($d$) traveled and the time ($t$) taken?

Accepted Answer

$v = \frac{d}{t}$

Question 4

Which of the following structures is responsible for the production, flow, and reabsorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

Accepted Answer

Choroid plexus, ventricles, and arachnoid villi

Question 5

A patient has damage to the Broca area of the cerebrum. Which symptom would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Difficulty producing speech

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and its significance?

Accepted Answer

The BBB is a selective barrier formed by endothelial cells that restricts passage of substances from the blood to the brain, protecting neural tissue from toxins and pathogens.

Question 7

Which of the following is the correct order of the meninges from outermost to innermost?

Accepted Answer

Dura mater, arachnoid mater, pia mater

Question 8

Which of the following cranial nerves is predominantly motor and controls eye movement?

Accepted Answer

Oculomotor nerve (CN III)

Question 9

A patient is unable to maintain balance and equilibrium after an inner ear infection. Which structure is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Crista ampullaris

Question 10

Which of the following best explains the difference between static and dynamic equilibrium?

Accepted Answer

Static equilibrium detects linear acceleration and head position, while dynamic equilibrium detects rotational movements.

Question 11

Which of the following equations correctly represents the calculation of the total number of spinal nerves ($N$) given the number of cervical ($C$), thoracic ($T$), lumbar ($L$), sacral ($S$), and coccygeal ($Co$) nerves?

Accepted Answer

$N = C + T + L + S + Co$

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the function of the limbic system?

Accepted Answer

Regulation of emotions, memory formation, and motivation

Question 13

A patient is unable to distinguish between sweet and salty tastes. Which cranial nerve is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Facial nerve (CN VII)

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the role of the hypothalamus in homeostasis?

Accepted Answer

It regulates autonomic functions, endocrine activity, and maintains body temperature.

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct description of the stretch reflex?

Accepted Answer

A monosynaptic reflex that causes muscle contraction in response to muscle stretching

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of rods in the retina?

Accepted Answer

Detect low levels of light and are responsible for night vision

Question 17

Which of the following is the correct pathway for the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from its origin to reabsorption?

Accepted Answer

Choroid plexus → ventricles → subarachnoid space → arachnoid villi → dural venous sinuses

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of the reticular activating system (RAS)?

Accepted Answer

Regulates wakefulness and alertness by filtering sensory input

Question 19

A patient presents with loss of pain and temperature sensation on the left side of the body and loss of motor function on the right side. Which spinal cord tract is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Right lateral spinothalamic tract

Comprehensive Study Notes: Nervous System and Special Senses in Anatomy & Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards