Q: Which equation best represents the pathway of a signal in the autonomic nervous system from the CNS to a smooth muscle effector?

$$\text{CNS} \xrightarrow{\text{preganglionic neuron}} \text{ganglion} \xrightarrow{\text{postganglionic neuron}} \text{effector}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)?

Accepted Answer

To monitor and respond to internal and external environments, maintaining homeostasis

Question 2

A patient is experiencing increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and decreased digestive activity after a car accident. Which division of the ANS is primarily responsible for these changes?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is released by cholinergic fibers in the ANS?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 4

In the autonomic nervous system, which type of receptor is found on all post-ganglionic neurons and is always excitatory when acetylcholine binds?

Accepted Answer

Nicotinic

Question 5

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the organization of the peripheral nervous system?

Accepted Answer

The autonomic nervous system uses a two-neuron chain to reach effectors

Question 6

A drug blocks muscarinic receptors. Which effect would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Altered activity in specific organs and glands, potentially affecting both excitatory and inhibitory responses

Question 7

Which equation best represents the pathway of a signal in the autonomic nervous system from the CNS to a smooth muscle effector?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{CNS} \xrightarrow{	ext{preganglionic neuron}} 	ext{ganglion} \xrightarrow{	ext{postganglionic neuron}} 	ext{effector}$$

Question 8

Which of the following statements about adrenergic receptors is correct?

Accepted Answer

Adrenergic receptors can be either excitatory or inhibitory depending on their location and subtype

Question 9

During 'rest and digest' conditions, which physiological change is most likely to occur due to parasympathetic activation?

Accepted Answer

Enhanced digestive activity and decreased respiratory rate

Question 10

A patient is given a medication that mimics norepinephrine. Which effect would you expect to see?

Accepted Answer

Increased heart rate and dilation of bronchioles

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why the ANS is crucial for homeostasis?

Accepted Answer

It continuously adjusts organ function in response to minute changes in the internal and external environment

Question 12

Which neurotransmitter and receptor combination is always excitatory in the ANS?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine binding to nicotinic receptors

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the sympathetic division's response to a threat (e.g., encountering a bear)?

Accepted Answer

Increased heart rate, dilated pupils, decreased digestive activity

Question 14

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

Accepted Answer

The somatic system uses a single neuron from CNS to effector, while the autonomic system uses a two-neuron chain

Question 15

Which of the following equations represents the neurotransmitter release at the effector in the parasympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Postganglionic neuron} \xrightarrow{	ext{ACh}} 	ext{Effector}$$

Question 16

Which of the following is a real-world example of adrenergic receptor activation?

Accepted Answer

A person’s heart rate increases during a stressful job interview

Question 17

Which of the following statements about neurotransmitter effects in the ANS is correct?

Accepted Answer

The effect of a neurotransmitter depends on the type of receptor it binds to

Question 18

A patient is unable to produce acetylcholine at their postganglionic neurons. Which system would be most affected?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system

Question 19

Which of the following is a multi-step process that occurs during sympathetic activation?

Accepted Answer

Preganglionic neuron releases acetylcholine, which stimulates the adrenal medulla to release epinephrine and norepinephrine into the bloodstream

Study Notes: The Autonomic Nervous System (Chapter 14)

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards