Question 1

Which division of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for increasing heart rate and dilating the bronchioles during a 'fight or flight' response?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 2

A patient presents with an inability to distinguish odors. Which cranial nerve is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Olfactory nerve (I)

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is released by all preganglionic fibers in both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the ANS?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 4

Which structure in the eye is directly affected by cataracts due to changes in crystallin proteins?

Accepted Answer

Lens

Question 5

A patient with damage to the vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) would most likely experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Impaired balance and hearing

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the function of the phrenic nerve?

Accepted Answer

Controls the diaphragm for breathing

Question 7

Which type of receptor is responsible for detecting stretch in muscles and tendons, allowing you to touch your nose with your eyes closed?

Accepted Answer

Proprioceptors

Question 8

Which neurotransmitter is primarily released by sympathetic postganglionic fibers?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine

Question 9

Which cranial nerve provides about 90% of the parasympathetic innervation to the thoracic and abdominal organs?

Accepted Answer

Vagus nerve (X)

Question 10

Which of the following is a function of the crossed-extensor reflex?

Accepted Answer

Allows one limb to extend while the opposite limb flexes in response to a painful stimulus

Question 11

Which structure in the ear is responsible for detecting rotational (dynamic) movement?

Accepted Answer

Crista ampullaris in the semicircular canals

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the effect of hyperpolarization on a neuron?

Accepted Answer

It makes it more difficult to generate an action potential

Question 13

Which of the following is true regarding the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the ANS?

Accepted Answer

They usually have opposite effects on the same effector

Question 14

Which of the following is the correct sequence for the path of light through the eye to the retina?

Accepted Answer

Cornea → aqueous humor → lens → vitreous humor → retina

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why glaucoma is most likely caused by a buildup of aqueous humor?

Accepted Answer

Aqueous humor is produced continuously and must drain properly; buildup increases intraocular pressure

Question 16

Which of the following is a characteristic of rods in the retina?

Accepted Answer

High sensitivity and function in low light

Question 17

Which cranial nerve is responsible for innervating the muscles involved in mastication (chewing)?

Accepted Answer

Trigeminal nerve (V)

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of adrenergic receptors?

Accepted Answer

Bind to norepinephrine and epinephrine

Question 19

Which of the following is a function of the maculae in the vestibule of the inner ear?

Accepted Answer

Detecting linear acceleration and head position

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the process of sensory adaptation?

Accepted Answer

Receptors become less responsive to a constant, unchanging stimulus

Peripheral and Autonomic Nervous System: Structure, Function, and Special Senses

Study Guide - Practice Questions

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