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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes the primary function of the autonomic nervous system?
A
It regulates involuntary functions such as heart rate and digestion.
B
It controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles.
C
It produces hormones that regulate metabolism.
D
It is responsible for processing sensory information from the environment.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is a division of the peripheral nervous system responsible for regulating involuntary physiological processes, such as heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, and glandular secretions.
Step 2: Differentiate between voluntary and involuntary functions. Voluntary functions, such as skeletal muscle movements, are controlled by the somatic nervous system, while involuntary functions are regulated by the autonomic nervous system.
Step 3: Eliminate options that do not align with the primary function of the autonomic nervous system. For example, controlling voluntary movements of skeletal muscles is the role of the somatic nervous system, not the autonomic nervous system.
Step 4: Consider the role of hormone production and sensory information processing. Hormone production is primarily the function of the endocrine system, and sensory information processing is handled by the central nervous system (CNS), not the autonomic nervous system.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct description of the autonomic nervous system's primary function is regulating involuntary functions such as heart rate and digestion, as this aligns with its physiological role.