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

How do somatic nervous system reflexes differ from autonomic nervous system reflexes?

Somatic reflexes involve voluntary control of skeletal muscles, while autonomic reflexes control involuntary functions of smooth and cardiac muscles.

Somatic reflexes only occur in the limbs, while autonomic reflexes occur in the torso.

Somatic reflexes are slower than autonomic reflexes due to the involvement of more synapses.

Autonomic reflexes are consciously controlled, whereas somatic reflexes are not.

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Verified step by step guidance

Begin by understanding the basic functions of the somatic and autonomic nervous systems. The somatic nervous system is responsible for voluntary movements and involves skeletal muscles, while the autonomic nervous system controls involuntary functions and involves smooth and cardiac muscles.

Consider the nature of control in each system. Somatic reflexes are typically under voluntary control, meaning they involve conscious decision-making to move muscles. In contrast, autonomic reflexes operate involuntarily, managing functions like heart rate and digestion without conscious input.

Examine the anatomical locations where these reflexes occur. Somatic reflexes primarily involve the limbs and skeletal muscles, whereas autonomic reflexes are more associated with the torso, affecting organs and systems like the heart and digestive tract.

Analyze the speed and complexity of reflexes in each system. Somatic reflexes can be slower due to the involvement of more synapses and the need for conscious processing. Autonomic reflexes are generally faster as they bypass conscious control and involve fewer synapses.

Clarify the misconception about conscious control. Autonomic reflexes are not consciously controlled; they function automatically to regulate bodily functions. Somatic reflexes, while involving voluntary muscles, are not always consciously controlled, especially in reflex actions like the knee-jerk response.