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

13. The Peripheral Nervous System

Reflex Arcs

Anatomy & Physiology

13. The Peripheral Nervous System

Reflex Arcs

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following best distinguishes a monosynaptic reflex from a polysynaptic reflex?

A monosynaptic reflex can only occur in the lower limbs, while a polysynaptic reflex occurs throughout the body.

A monosynaptic reflex always involves the brain, while a polysynaptic reflex does not.

A monosynaptic reflex requires conscious thought, while a polysynaptic reflex is automatic.

A monosynaptic reflex involves only one synapse between a sensory and a motor neuron, while a polysynaptic reflex involves one or more interneurons and multiple synapses.

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Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by understanding the basic definitions of reflexes. Reflexes are automatic, involuntary responses to stimuli that help maintain homeostasis and protect the body from harm.

Step 2: Define a monosynaptic reflex. A monosynaptic reflex involves only one synapse between a sensory neuron and a motor neuron. This type of reflex is simple and fast because it does not involve interneurons. An example is the patellar reflex (knee-jerk reflex).

Step 3: Define a polysynaptic reflex. A polysynaptic reflex involves one or more interneurons between the sensory neuron and the motor neuron. This type of reflex is more complex and slower than a monosynaptic reflex because it involves multiple synapses. An example is the withdrawal reflex (e.g., pulling your hand away from a hot surface).

Step 4: Compare the two reflex types. The key distinction is that a monosynaptic reflex has only one synapse, while a polysynaptic reflex has multiple synapses and involves interneurons. This difference affects the speed and complexity of the reflex response.

Step 5: Evaluate the provided options. The correct answer is the one that accurately describes the structural and functional difference between monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes: 'A monosynaptic reflex involves only one synapse between a sensory and a motor neuron, while a polysynaptic reflex involves one or more interneurons and multiple synapses.'