Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is an effect of the sympathetic division on the eye?
A
Relaxation of the ciliary muscle for near vision
B
Constriction of the pupil
C
Increased tear production
D
Dilation of the pupil
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system. It is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, which prepares the body for action by increasing alertness and energy availability.
Review the anatomy of the eye and its autonomic control. The pupil is controlled by two muscles: the sphincter pupillae (constricts the pupil) and the dilator pupillae (dilates the pupil). The sympathetic division stimulates the dilator pupillae muscle.
Analyze the options provided. Relaxation of the ciliary muscle for near vision is incorrect because the sympathetic division typically facilitates far vision by relaxing the ciliary muscle. Constriction of the pupil is incorrect because this is a parasympathetic response. Increased tear production is also incorrect because tear production is primarily controlled by the parasympathetic division.
Focus on the correct answer: Dilation of the pupil. This occurs because the sympathetic division activates the dilator pupillae muscle, allowing more light to enter the eye, which is beneficial in low-light or high-alert situations.
Summarize the physiological mechanism: The sympathetic division causes dilation of the pupil by stimulating the dilator pupillae muscle, which is part of the body's response to stress or danger, enhancing vision in challenging conditions.