Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Sympathetic Nervous System

Anatomy & Physiology

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Sympathetic Nervous System

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a main effect of the sympathetic nervous system on the heart?

Constricts bronchioles

Decreases heart rate

Increases heart rate

Stimulates digestive secretions

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Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by understanding the role of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). The SNS is part of the autonomic nervous system and is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, which prepares the body for action during stress or emergencies.

Step 2: Analyze the effects of the SNS on the heart. The SNS releases neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, which bind to beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to increased heart rate (tachycardia) and stronger contractions.

Step 3: Evaluate the options provided in the question. 'Constricts bronchioles' is incorrect because the SNS typically dilates bronchioles to improve airflow during stress. 'Decreases heart rate' is incorrect because the SNS increases heart rate. 'Stimulates digestive secretions' is incorrect because the SNS inhibits digestive activity during stress.

Step 4: Focus on the correct answer, 'Increases heart rate.' This aligns with the SNS's role in preparing the body for action by ensuring the heart pumps blood more efficiently to supply oxygen and nutrients to muscles and vital organs.

Step 5: Conclude by reinforcing the concept that the sympathetic nervous system's primary effect on the heart is to increase heart rate and contractility, which supports the body's ability to respond to stress or danger.