Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference in the efferent (motor) pathway between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

The autonomic nervous system uses two neurons, while the somatic nervous system uses one neuron.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is released by sympathetic preganglionic fibers, and what type of fiber is it considered?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine; cholinergic fiber

Question 4

Which of the following is a correct sequence of neurotransmitter release in the sympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

ACh from preganglionic fiber, then NE from postganglionic fiber

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

The adrenal medulla releases epinephrine and norepinephrine into the bloodstream, affecting many organs.

Question 6

Which receptor type is always excitatory when acetylcholine binds to it?

Accepted Answer

Nicotinic receptor

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic effects on target organs

Question 8

Which of the following best describes dual innervation?

Accepted Answer

Most organs receive input from both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, often with opposing effects.

Question 9

Which of the following is a function of the enteric nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Initiating and coordinating many visceral reflexes locally within the digestive tract

Question 10

A patient is given a drug that mimics the effect of norepinephrine on beta receptors. Which of the following effects would you expect?

Accepted Answer

Increased heart rate and bronchodilation

Question 11

Which anatomical feature distinguishes the sympathetic division from the parasympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic preganglionic neurons originate in the thoracolumbar region, while parasympathetic preganglionic neurons originate in the craniosacral region.

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the effect of sympathetic stimulation on energy reserves?

Accepted Answer

Mobilizes energy reserves by breaking down glycogen and releasing lipids

Question 13

Which neurotransmitter is released by parasympathetic postganglionic fibers, and what is the effect on the target cell dependent on?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine; type of cholinergic receptor

Question 14

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

Accepted Answer

Ganglia are located within or adjacent to target organs.

Question 15

A patient with a spinal cord injury at the lumbar level would most likely have impaired function in which division of the ANS?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why the parasympathetic division produces more specific and localized effects than the sympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic ganglia are located within or adjacent to target organs, resulting in short postganglionic fibers.

Question 17

Which of the following is a characteristic effect of parasympathetic stimulation?

Accepted Answer

Constriction of pupils and increased digestive gland secretion

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of the adrenal medulla in the sympathetic division?

Accepted Answer

It releases epinephrine and norepinephrine as hormones into the bloodstream.

Question 19

Which of the following is true regarding the effect of acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors?

Accepted Answer

It can either excite or inhibit the target cell, depending on the organ.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the anatomical distribution of sympathetic postganglionic fibers?

Accepted Answer

They innervate effectors throughout the body, including smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, adipose tissue, and glands.

Chapter 17- The Autonomic Nervous System: Structure, Function, and Divisions

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