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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Problem 1

Textbook Question

Which of the following best describes the basic function of the autonomic nervous system?
a. Controls the somatic nervous system
b. Controls automatic functions to maintain homeostasis
c. Detects somatic sensory information
d. All of the above

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, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and respiratory rate.

Step 2: Recall the concept of homeostasis. Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. The ANS plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis by controlling automatic functions.

Step 3: Analyze the options provided in the question. Option (a) suggests the ANS controls the somatic nervous system, which is incorrect because the somatic nervous system is responsible for voluntary movements and is separate from the ANS. Option (c) suggests the ANS detects somatic sensory information, which is also incorrect because sensory information is processed by sensory neurons, not the ANS.

Step 4: Evaluate option (b). This option states that the ANS controls automatic functions to maintain homeostasis, which aligns with the primary role of the ANS. It regulates involuntary processes to ensure the body remains in balance.

Step 5: Consider option (d), which states 'All of the above.' Since options (a) and (c) are incorrect, option (d) cannot be correct. Therefore, the best description of the basic function of the ANS is option (b).

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The autonomic nervous system is a component of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary physiological functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and digestion. It operates automatically, without conscious control, and is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, which work together to maintain homeostasis.

Homeostasis

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. This involves various physiological processes that regulate temperature, pH, hydration, and other vital conditions, ensuring that the body functions optimally. The autonomic nervous system plays a crucial role in achieving and maintaining homeostasis.

Somatic Nervous System

The somatic nervous system is responsible for voluntary movements and the transmission of sensory information to the central nervous system. It controls skeletal muscles and mediates conscious sensations, such as touch and pain. In contrast to the autonomic nervous system, the somatic system requires conscious thought and is not involved in automatic bodily functions.