14. The Autonomic Nervous System

What two distinctive results are produced by the stimulation of sympathetic ganglionic neurons?

Which four pairs of cranial nerves are associated with the cranial segment of the parasympathetic division of the ANS?

Which six plexuses in the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities innervate visceral organs, and what are the effects of sympathetic versus parasympathetic stimulation?

Dual innervation refers to situations in which

(a) Vital organs receive instructions from both sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers.

(b) The atria and ventricles of the heart receive autonomic stimulation from the same nerves.

(c) Sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers have similar effects.

(d) All of these are correct.

Why does sympathetic function remain intact even when the anterior roots of the cervical spinal nerves are damaged?

During sympathetic stimulation, a person may begin to feel 'on edge'; this is the result of

(a) Increased energy metabolism by muscle tissue

(b) Increased cardiovascular activity

(c) Stimulation of the reticular activating system

(d) Temporary insensitivity to painful stimuli

(e) Decreased levels of epinephrine in the blood

Under which of the following circumstances would the diameter of peripheral blood vessels be greatest?

(a) Increased sympathetic stimulation

(b) Decreased sympathetic stimulation

(c) Increased parasympathetic stimulation

(d) Decreased parasympathetic stimulation

(e) Both increased parasympathetic and sympathetic stimulation

You are home alone at night when you hear what sounds like breaking glass. What physiological effects would this experience probably produce, and what would be their cause?

The condition known as shock is characterized in part by a decreased return of venous blood to the heart. How could an upsetting situation, such as the sight of a tragic accident or very bad news, produce some temporary symptoms of shock?

Regulation of heart rate, blood pressure, and digestive functions is carried out by the:

a. Somatic motor division of the peripheral nervous system.

b. Central nervous system.

c. Visceral sensory division of the peripheral nervous system.

d. Autonomic nervous system.

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

d. The crossed-extension reflex occurs simultaneously with the simple stretch reflex.

Differentiate between adrenergic and cholinergic receptors.

Explain what happens when sympathetic neurons stimulate the adrenal medulla. What purpose does this serve?

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

Central nervous system control over the ANS is mediated by:

a. The reticular formation

b. The hypothalamus

c. The thalamus

d. Both a and b