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

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the autonomic nervous system?

Transmission of sensory information to the brain

Control of voluntary muscle movements

Production of hormones by endocrine glands

Regulation of involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate and digestion

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Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by understanding the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is a division of the peripheral nervous system responsible for regulating involuntary physiological processes, including heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, pupillary response, and more.

Step 2: Differentiate between voluntary and involuntary functions. Voluntary functions, such as muscle movements, are controlled by the somatic nervous system, while involuntary functions, like heart rate and digestion, are regulated by the autonomic nervous system.

Step 3: Recognize the two main branches of the autonomic nervous system: the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. The sympathetic division is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, while the parasympathetic division manages 'rest and digest' activities.

Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options based on the function of the ANS. Transmission of sensory information to the brain is primarily handled by sensory neurons, not the ANS. Control of voluntary muscle movements is managed by the somatic nervous system. Production of hormones by endocrine glands is regulated by the endocrine system, not directly by the ANS.

Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Regulation of involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate and digestion,' as this aligns with the primary role of the autonomic nervous system.