Multiple Choice
Which of the following is under the control of the parasympathetic nervous system?
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14. The Autonomic Nervous System
Parasympathetic Nervous System
Multiple Choice
Stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system would most likely result in which of the following responses?
A
Increased pupil diameter (mydriasis)
B
Increased sweat gland secretion
C
Decreased gastrointestinal motility and secretions
D
Decreased heart rate (bradycardia)
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the role of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). The PNS is part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for 'rest and digest' activities, which generally conserve energy and promote maintenance functions.
Step 2: Analyze each option in the context of PNS effects. For example, increased pupil diameter (mydriasis) is typically caused by sympathetic stimulation, not parasympathetic, which causes pupil constriction (miosis).
Step 3: Consider sweat gland secretion. This is primarily controlled by the sympathetic nervous system, so increased secretion is unlikely to result from parasympathetic stimulation.
Step 4: Evaluate gastrointestinal motility and secretions. Parasympathetic stimulation actually increases gastrointestinal motility and secretions to aid digestion, so decreased motility and secretions would not be expected.
Step 5: Recognize that parasympathetic stimulation decreases heart rate (bradycardia) by acting on the sinoatrial node of the heart, which aligns with the correct answer.
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