Q: Which equation correctly represents the conversion of norepinephrine to epinephrine in the adrenal medulla?

$$\text{Norepinephrine} + \text{Phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase} \rightarrow \text{Epinephrine}$$

Q: Which equation best represents the neurotransmitter release at the parasympathetic postganglionic neuron?

$$\text{Postganglionic neuron} \xrightarrow{\text{Release}} \text{Acetylcholine}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the organization of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) compared to the somatic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

The ANS uses a two-neuron chain (preganglionic and postganglionic), while the somatic system uses a single motor neuron.

Question 2

Which neurotransmitter is released by sympathetic preganglionic neurons?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 4

Which of the following best defines a ganglionic neuron?

Accepted Answer

A neuron whose cell body is located in an autonomic ganglion and whose axon innervates target organs.

Question 5

Which of the following is a major difference between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions regarding their ganglia?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic ganglia are located near the spinal cord, while parasympathetic ganglia are located near or within the target organs.

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the function of varicosities in the sympathetic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

They are swellings along postganglionic fibers that release neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine onto target tissues.

Question 7

Which equation correctly represents the conversion of norepinephrine to epinephrine in the adrenal medulla?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Norepinephrine} + 	ext{Phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase} ightarrow 	ext{Epinephrine}$$

Question 8

Which adrenergic receptor is primarily responsible for increasing heart rate and force of contraction during sympathetic stimulation?

Accepted Answer

Beta-1 receptor

Question 9

A drug that blocks muscarinic receptors would most likely affect which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic effects on heart rate and digestive activity

Question 10

Which of the following best describes dual innervation?

Accepted Answer

A single organ receives input from both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, allowing for precise regulation.

Question 11

Which of the following is a major effect of parasympathetic activation?

Accepted Answer

Decreased heart rate and increased digestive activity

Question 12

Which equation best represents the neurotransmitter release at the parasympathetic postganglionic neuron?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Postganglionic neuron} \xrightarrow{	ext{Release}} 	ext{Acetylcholine}$$

Question 13

Which of the following best describes autonomic tone?

Accepted Answer

The baseline level of activity in autonomic neurons that allows for rapid adjustments in organ function.

Question 14

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

Accepted Answer

Decreased ability to respond to stress and reduced pupil dilation

Question 15

Which of the following is true regarding the location of sympathetic ganglionic neurons?

Accepted Answer

They are located in the sympathetic chain ganglia, collateral ganglia, and adrenal medulla.

Question 16

Which scenario best illustrates a visceral reflex?

Accepted Answer

A sudden increase in heart rate in response to low blood pressure detected by baroreceptors.

Question 17

Which of the following statements about alpha and beta adrenergic receptors is correct?

Accepted Answer

Alpha-1 receptors cause vasoconstriction, while beta-2 receptors cause bronchodilation.

Question 18

A patient is given a beta-blocker medication. Which physiological effect is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Decreased heart rate and reduced force of contraction

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the organization of the parasympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Preganglionic neurons originate in the brainstem and sacral spinal cord, and synapse in ganglia near or within target organs.

Question 20

Which equation best represents the effect of sympathetic stimulation on blood vessels supplying skeletal muscle?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Norepinephrine} \xrightarrow{	ext{Beta-2 receptor activation}} 	ext{Vasodilation}$$

Study Guide: The Autonomic Nervous System (A&P - BIOL 2401, Chapter 16)

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards