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

Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System

Anatomy & Physiology

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System

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Multiple Choice

Pacemaker cells isolated from the SA node generate action potentials at approximately how many beats per minute?

120 beats per minute

40 beats per minute

100 beats per minute

60 beats per minute

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of pacemaker cells: Pacemaker cells in the sinoatrial (SA) node are specialized cardiac cells responsible for initiating the electrical impulses that regulate the heart's rhythm. These cells generate action potentials spontaneously due to their unique ion channel properties.

Learn the intrinsic firing rate of the SA node: The SA node's pacemaker cells have an intrinsic firing rate of approximately 100 beats per minute under normal conditions, which is the heart's natural rhythm without external influences.

Consider autonomic nervous system modulation: The actual heart rate in a living organism is often lower than 100 beats per minute due to parasympathetic nervous system activity (via the vagus nerve), which slows the heart rate to around 60-80 beats per minute at rest.

Compare the options provided: Among the choices given (120, 40, 100, and 60 beats per minute), the intrinsic firing rate of the SA node aligns with 100 beats per minute, which is the correct answer.

Conclude with the physiological significance: The SA node's intrinsic firing rate ensures the heart maintains a consistent rhythm, which is crucial for effective blood circulation throughout the body.