Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

It maintains internal homeostasis by automatically regulating smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and glands.

Question 2

A patient is experiencing increased heart rate, dilated bronchioles, and decreased gastrointestinal activity. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is primarily responsible for these effects?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 3

Which of the following accurately compares the efferent pathways of the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

Somatic uses a single neuron, while autonomic uses a two-neuron chain (preganglionic and postganglionic).

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine (ACh)

Question 5

A drug blocks muscarinic receptors. Which of the following effects would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Reduced parasympathetic effects on target organs such as decreased GI motility

Question 6

Which of the following statements about adrenergic and cholinergic fibers is correct?

Accepted Answer

Adrenergic fibers release norepinephrine and act on alpha and beta receptors.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why the sympathetic division can produce a widespread, full-body response while the parasympathetic division produces more localized effects?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic ganglia are interconnected in a chain near the spinal cord, allowing mass activation.

Question 8

A patient is unable to sweat in response to heat, but other sympathetic responses are intact. Which neurotransmitter is most likely not being released at the sweat glands?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine (ACh)

Question 9

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the effects of the parasympathetic and sympathetic divisions on the heart?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic decreases heart rate; sympathetic increases heart rate and force.

Question 10

Which structure is considered the main integration center and 'overall boss' of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Hypothalamus

Question 11

A person is exposed to a stressful situation, resulting in increased blood pressure and dilated pupils. Which pathway is most responsible for these changes?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division via thoracolumbar outflow

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the neurotransmitter and receptor type at the synapse between preganglionic and postganglionic neurons in both divisions of the ANS?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine acting on nicotinic receptors

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct pairing of autonomic division, origin, and fiber length?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic; craniosacral origin; long preganglionic fibers

Question 14

A patient is given a drug that stimulates beta receptors. Which of the following effects is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Bronchodilation (widening of airways)

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why the parasympathetic division is called the 'rest and digest' system?

Accepted Answer

It promotes energy conservation, digestion, and waste elimination.

Question 16

Which of the following is an exception to the general rule regarding neurotransmitter release in the sympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic postganglionic neurons to sweat glands release acetylcholine.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the effect of the sympathetic division on the adrenal medulla?

Accepted Answer

It stimulates the release of epinephrine into the bloodstream.

Question 18

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the role of the cerebral cortex in autonomic nervous system control?

Accepted Answer

A person blushes when embarrassed, as emotional states influence the hypothalamus.

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct summary of neurotransmitter release in the parasympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Both preganglionic and postganglionic neurons release acetylcholine.

Question 20

A patient with a spinal cord injury at the thoracic level (T1–L2) is likely to have impaired function in which division of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Guided Study: The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) – Key Concepts and Comparisons

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