Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference in motor neuron organization between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

The somatic nervous system uses a single neuron from CNS to effector, while the autonomic nervous system uses a two-neuron chain (preganglionic and postganglionic).

Question 2

A patient experiences increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and decreased digestive activity during a stressful event. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is primarily responsible for these effects?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic division

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine ($$\mathrm{ACh})$$

Question 4

During the 'fight or flight' response, which of the following physiological changes is NOT typically mediated by the sympathetic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Constriction of pupils

Question 5

Which pathway correctly describes the sympathetic innervation of the dilator pupillae muscle in the eye?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic fibers from T1–T2 → superior cervical ganglion → dilator pupillae

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

Promotes glycogen storage in the liver

Question 7

A lesion interrupts sympathetic outflow at L1–L2. Which function is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Control of sweat glands in lower limbs

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why the effects of adrenal medulla stimulation last longer than direct sympathetic innervation?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal medulla releases hormones (epinephrine and norepinephrine) into the bloodstream, producing widespread and prolonged effects.

Question 9

Which neurotransmitter is released by postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system at most target organs?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine ($$\mathrm{NE})$$

Question 10

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the somatic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

It uses a single, heavily myelinated neuron from CNS to skeletal muscle.

Question 11

A patient has unilateral sympathetic trunk damage. Why might the skin on that side feel warmer and appear redder?

Accepted Answer

Reduced sympathetic vasoconstrictor activity in cutaneous blood vessels

Question 12

Which of the following organs receives direct sympathetic innervation via preganglionic fibers that do NOT synapse in a ganglion?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal medulla

Question 13

Which effect is produced by the sympathetic nervous system on sweat glands?

Accepted Answer

Increases sweating

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the effect of the parasympathetic nervous system on the bladder?

Accepted Answer

Contracts bladder wall (promotes urination)

Question 15

Which ganglia are involved in sympathetic innervation of abdominal organs such as the stomach, liver, and kidneys?

Accepted Answer

Prevertebral (collateral) ganglia: celiac, superior mesenteric, and inferior mesenteric

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct statement about the neurotransmitters used in the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic postganglionic neurons release acetylcholine ($$\mathrm{ACh}).$$

Question 17

A tumor damages the sympathetic trunk in the thoracic region. Which function may be impaired?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic regulation of the heart and sweat glands

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the effect of the sympathetic nervous system on the arrector pili muscle?

Accepted Answer

Causes hair to stand (piloerection)

Question 19

Which of the following is a likely result of damage interrupting sympathetic fibers traveling through the lumbar sympathetic trunk to the lower limb?

Accepted Answer

Reduced sweating and impaired vasoconstriction in the affected limb

Question 20

A student claims the thoracolumbar division innervates the adrenal cortex directly. What is the most accurate correction?

Accepted Answer

Preganglionic sympathetic fibers synapse directly on adrenal medulla cells

Chapter 16- Lecture 1

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards