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

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Introduction to Organ Systems

Anatomy & Physiology

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Introduction to Organ Systems

Previous problemNext problem

Struggling with Anatomy & Physiology?

Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video

Multiple Choice

Defecation is stimulated by which of the following?

sympathetic nervous system activity

parasympathetic nervous system activity

release of insulin

increased blood pressure

Previous problemNext problem

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of the autonomic nervous system in regulating bodily functions. The autonomic nervous system has two main divisions: the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. The sympathetic system is often associated with 'fight or flight' responses, while the parasympathetic system is associated with 'rest and digest' functions.

Recall that defecation is part of the digestive process, which is primarily controlled by the parasympathetic nervous system. This system promotes activities such as peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract) and relaxation of the internal anal sphincter.

Eliminate the incorrect options: Sympathetic nervous system activity is not involved in stimulating defecation, as it generally inhibits digestive processes. Similarly, the release of insulin and increased blood pressure are unrelated to the direct stimulation of defecation.

Focus on the correct option: Parasympathetic nervous system activity stimulates defecation by increasing peristalsis in the colon and relaxing the internal anal sphincter, allowing the passage of feces.

Conclude that the correct answer is 'parasympathetic nervous system activity,' as it aligns with the physiological processes involved in defecation.