Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main functional difference between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

The sympathetic division prepares the body for activity ('fight or flight'), while the parasympathetic division conserves energy and promotes maintenance functions ('rest and digest').

Question 2

A patient is experiencing increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and dry mouth after a car accident. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is primarily responsible for these symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 4

Where are the ganglia of the parasympathetic division typically located?

Accepted Answer

Within or near the walls of the target organs

Question 5

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the efferent pathways of the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

The autonomic nervous system uses a two-neuron chain consisting of preganglionic and postganglionic neurons.

Question 6

A drug that blocks acetylcholine receptors on the heart would most likely interfere with which division of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic division

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why the sympathetic division has more widespread and longer-lasting effects than the parasympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division stimulates the adrenal medulla to release epinephrine and norepinephrine into the bloodstream.

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a function of the parasympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Accelerating heart rate

Question 9

A patient has a spinal cord injury at the level of T1. Which autonomic functions might be most affected?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic control of the pupils and heart

Question 10

Which of the following best describes dual innervation in the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

All visceral organs are served by both divisions, which usually cause opposite effects.

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct pairing of neurotransmitter and its effect in the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine released by sympathetic postganglionic fibers stimulates increased heart rate.

Question 12

Which anatomical feature is unique to the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

White and gray rami communicantes

Question 13

A patient is given a medication that inhibits the activity of the vagus nerve. Which of the following effects would you expect?

Accepted Answer

Increased heart rate

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the pathway of a sympathetic preganglionic neuron that innervates abdominal organs?

Accepted Answer

It passes through the sympathetic trunk without synapsing and synapses in a collateral ganglion.

Question 15

Which of the following is a real-life example of sympathetic nervous system activation?

Accepted Answer

Running from a dangerous animal

Question 16

Which of the following statements about the control of the autonomic nervous system is correct?

Accepted Answer

The hypothalamus is the main integrative center for ANS activity.

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why the parasympathetic division is sometimes called the 'craniosacral division'?

Accepted Answer

Its fibers originate in the brainstem and sacral spinal cord segments.

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the visceral reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

Receptor → Sensory neuron → Integration center → Motor neuron → Effector

Question 19

Which of the following organs is innervated ONLY by the sympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Sweat glands

The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): Structure, Function, and Divisions

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