Q: Which equation correctly represents the pathway of a somatic motor neuron from the CNS to the effector muscle?

$$\text{CNS} \xrightarrow{\text{single myelinated axon}} \text{Skeletal Muscle}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference in efferent pathways between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

Somatic pathways use a single neuron from the CNS to the effector, while autonomic pathways use two neurons in series (preganglionic and postganglionic).

Question 2

A patient presents with dilated pupils, increased heart rate, and decreased gastrointestinal activity. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is most likely activated?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic nervous system

Question 3

Which anatomical structure contains the cell bodies of preganglionic sympathetic neurons?

Accepted Answer

Lateral gray horn of the spinal cord

Question 4

In the sympathetic division, what is the exception to the typical two-neuron pathway?

Accepted Answer

Preganglionic fibers synapse directly with the adrenal medulla, which releases neurotransmitters into the blood.

Question 5

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the effect of parasympathetic stimulation on the heart?

Accepted Answer

It decreases heart rate and force of contraction.

Question 6

A drug blocks the neurotransmitter released by postganglionic sympathetic fibers. Which physiological effect would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Reduced 'fight or flight' responses such as decreased heart rate and blood pressure

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the location and function of collateral ganglia in the sympathetic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Located in the abdominopelvic cavity and innervate visceral organs such as the intestines

Question 8

Which equation correctly represents the pathway of a somatic motor neuron from the CNS to the effector muscle?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{CNS} \xrightarrow{	ext{single myelinated axon}} 	ext{Skeletal Muscle}$$

Question 9

During a stressful event, which of the following changes would you expect in the airways and gastrointestinal glands due to sympathetic activation?

Accepted Answer

Airway diameter increases; gastrointestinal gland secretion decreases

Question 10

Which of the following statements about the sympathetic chain is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is a series of ganglia located lateral to the vertebral column and connected by sympathetic trunks.

Question 11

Which neurotransmitter is primarily released by postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine

Question 12

A lesion in the ventral gray horn of the spinal cord would most directly affect which type of motor pathway?

Accepted Answer

Lower motor neuron pathway of the somatic nervous system

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why the autonomic nervous system can both excite and inhibit target organs?

Accepted Answer

It has two divisions (sympathetic and parasympathetic) that release different neurotransmitters and have opposing effects.

Question 14

Which pathway correctly traces the lateral corticospinal tract from the cortex to the effector muscle?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Pre-central gyrus} ightarrow 	ext{internal capsule} ightarrow 	ext{cerebral peduncle} ightarrow 	ext{pyramids of medulla} ightarrow 	ext{decussation} ightarrow 	ext{lateral corticospinal tract} ightarrow 	ext{ventral horn} ightarrow 	ext{skeletal muscle}$$

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT a typical effector organ of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Skeletal muscle

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the effect of sympathetic stimulation on blood vessels supplying the gut?

Accepted Answer

Vasoconstriction, decreasing blood flow to the gut

Question 17

Which of the following equations best represents the general layout of autonomic pathways?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Preganglionic cell body in CNS} \xrightarrow{	ext{myelinated axon}} 	ext{Autonomic ganglion} \xrightarrow{	ext{unmyelinated axon}} 	ext{Effector organ}$$

Question 18

Which of the following is a function of the parasympathetic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Conserving and restoring energy during rest

Question 19

A patient with damage to the sympathetic chain ganglia would most likely experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Decreased ability to respond to stress (e.g., reduced heart rate and pupil dilation)

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why the adrenal medulla is considered a neuroendocrine organ?

Accepted Answer

It receives direct innervation from preganglionic sympathetic fibers and releases neurotransmitters (e.g., epinephrine) into the general circulation.

Motor Pathways & Autonomic Nervous System: Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards