Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

Accepted Answer

It regulates vital involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate.

Question 2

The sympathetic division of the ANS is often referred to as the 'fight or flight' system. Which of the following scenarios best illustrates activation of the sympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

A person running away from a barking dog.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 4

Where are the cell bodies of sympathetic preganglionic neurons located?

Accepted Answer

In the lateral horns of the thoracic and lumbar spinal cord segments.

Question 5

Which of the following is a correct pathway for a sympathetic preganglionic neuron?

Accepted Answer

It exits the spinal cord, enters the sympathetic chain ganglion, and may synapse there or travel to a collateral ganglion.

Question 6

Which of the following receptors is most likely to be found on the heart and is responsible for increasing heart rate when activated by norepinephrine?

Accepted Answer

Beta-1 adrenergic receptor

Question 7

A patient is given a drug that blocks beta-2 adrenergic receptors. Which physiological effect would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Constriction of the bronchioles, leading to decreased airflow.

Question 8

Which cranial nerve carries the majority of parasympathetic fibers to the thoracic and abdominal organs?

Accepted Answer

CN X (Vagus)

Question 9

Which of the following best explains the effect of the sympathetic nervous system on blood vessels serving skeletal muscle during exercise?

Accepted Answer

Dilation of blood vessels, increasing blood flow to muscles.

Question 10

Which neurotransmitter is released by postganglionic sympathetic neurons at most target organs?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine

Question 11

Which of the following is a function of muscarinic cholinergic receptors?

Accepted Answer

They mediate the effects of acetylcholine at parasympathetic target organs.

Question 12

A patient is experiencing increased secretion from sweat glands during physical activity. Which division of the ANS is primarily responsible for this response?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic nervous system

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the effect of parasympathetic stimulation on the digestive tract?

Accepted Answer

Increased motility and secretion.

Question 14

Which of the following equations correctly represents the relationship between neurotransmitter binding and receptor activation in the ANS?

Accepted Answer

$$ACh + R_{nicotinic} \rightarrow Activation$$

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct statement about the adrenal medulla?

Accepted Answer

It releases norepinephrine and epinephrine directly into the bloodstream when stimulated by preganglionic sympathetic neurons.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the effect of sympathetic stimulation on the pupils?

Accepted Answer

Dilation of the pupils via activation of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors.

Question 17

Which of the following is true regarding the location of parasympathetic ganglia?

Accepted Answer

They are located close to or within the walls of target organs.

Question 18

Which of the following best explains the effect of norepinephrine binding to beta-1 receptors on cardiac muscle cells?

Accepted Answer

It increases heart rate and contractility.

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct effect of parasympathetic stimulation on the heart?

Accepted Answer

Decreased heart rate via muscarinic cholinergic receptors.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the role of autonomic centers in the brain?

Accepted Answer

They are found in the reticular formation and control the activity of preganglionic sympathetic and parasympathetic neurons.

The Autonomic Nervous System and Homeostasis: Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards