Question 1

Which of the following best describes a reflex?

Accepted Answer

A protective, programmed automatic response to a stimulus

Question 2

Which sequence correctly represents the steps of a reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

Sensory receptor → CNS integration → Effector

Question 3

A patient is unable to blink when an object touches their cornea, but can blink voluntarily. Which part of the reflex arc is most likely impaired?

Accepted Answer

The sensory (afferent) pathway

Question 4

Which of the following is TRUE regarding monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes?

Accepted Answer

Monosynaptic reflexes contain only one synapse between sensory and motor neurons

Question 5

Which of the following best describes reciprocal inhibition?

Accepted Answer

Relaxation of a muscle on one side of a joint to accommodate contraction on the other side

Question 6

The patellar (knee-jerk) reflex is an example of which type of reflex?

Accepted Answer

Monosynaptic somatic stretch reflex

Question 7

Which of the following statements about the Golgi tendon reflex is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is a polysynaptic reflex that causes muscle relaxation to prevent damage

Question 8

A person steps on a sharp object with their right foot and immediately withdraws it while extending the left leg to support their weight. Which reflexes are involved?

Accepted Answer

Flexor (withdrawal) reflex and crossed extensor reflex

Question 9

Which of the following best defines a contralateral reflex?

Accepted Answer

A reflex that occurs on the opposite side of the body from the stimulus

Question 10

Which of the following is an example of a cranial nerve reflex?

Accepted Answer

Gag reflex

Question 11

Which of the following equations best represents the relationship between the number of synapses ($n$) and the speed ($v$) of a reflex, assuming each synapse introduces a delay $d$?

Accepted Answer

$v = \frac{1}{n \cdot d}$

Question 12

Which of the following best distinguishes a somatic reflex from a visceral reflex?

Accepted Answer

Somatic reflexes involve somatic sensory and motor neurons; visceral reflexes innervate internal organs and are associated with the ANS

Question 13

A patient presents with hyperactive stretch reflexes. Which part of the reflex arc is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

The CNS is failing to properly integrate and inhibit the reflex

Question 14

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the integration center of a reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

It is where the CNS processes the sensory input and initiates the motor output

Question 15

During the patellar reflex, which muscle group is inhibited due to reciprocal inhibition?

Accepted Answer

Hamstrings

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why the Golgi tendon reflex is important during heavy lifting?

Accepted Answer

It prevents muscle and tendon damage by causing relaxation when tension is too high

Question 17

Which of the following is a key difference between a spinal reflex and a cranial reflex?

Accepted Answer

Spinal reflexes are integrated in the spinal cord; cranial reflexes are integrated in the brain

Question 18

A person touches a hot stove and immediately withdraws their hand. Which type of reflex is this, and what is its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Flexor (withdrawal) reflex; to protect the body from injury

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) in the reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

The PNS detects and delivers the stimulus to the CNS and delivers the motor response from the CNS to effectors

Question 20

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates a crossed extensor reflex?

Accepted Answer

Withdrawing the right hand from a painful stimulus while extending the left hand to maintain balance

Reflexes: Mechanisms and Types in Human Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards