Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between the target cells of the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

Somatic nervous system targets skeletal muscle, while autonomic targets cardiac muscle, smooth muscle, and glands.

Question 2

A patient is experiencing increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and decreased digestive activity. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is most active?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic nervous system

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is primarily released by postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine

Question 4

Which of the following is a physiological effect of the parasympathetic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Stimulation of digestive gland secretion

Question 5

A drug blocks muscarinic receptors. Which effect would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Reduced activity of the parasympathetic nervous system

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the structure of a visceral reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

It includes a sensory neuron, integration center, preganglionic neuron, postganglionic neuron, and an effector.

Question 7

Which neurotransmitter is released by all preganglionic neurons in both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 8

A person is exposed to a stressful situation. Which of the following best explains how the sympathetic nervous system helps maintain homeostasis?

Accepted Answer

It increases heart rate and blood flow to muscles, preparing the body for 'fight or flight'.

Question 9

Which of the following statements about the autonomic motor pathway is correct?

Accepted Answer

It involves two neurons: a preganglionic and a postganglionic neuron.

Question 10

Which receptor type is found on the effector cells of the parasympathetic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Muscarinic receptors

Question 11

A patient with a spinal cord injury loses voluntary control of skeletal muscles but retains involuntary control of heart rate and digestion. Which nervous system is most likely still functioning?

Accepted Answer

Autonomic nervous system

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why the sympathetic nervous system is also called the thoracolumbar division?

Accepted Answer

Its preganglionic neurons originate in the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spinal cord.

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct sequence for the flow of information in a visceral reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

Sensory neuron → Integration center → Preganglionic neuron → Postganglionic neuron → Effector

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the role of the parasympathetic nervous system in homeostasis?

Accepted Answer

It promotes rest, digestion, and energy storage.

Question 15

A patient is given a drug that mimics the effects of norepinephrine. Which of the following effects would you expect?

Accepted Answer

Dilation of the bronchioles

Question 16

Which of the following is a key difference between the somatic and autonomic motor pathways?

Accepted Answer

Somatic pathways use one neuron; autonomic use two neurons in series.

Question 17

Which of the following best explains how the nervous system as a whole regulates homeostasis?

Accepted Answer

By integrating sensory input and coordinating autonomic and somatic responses

Question 18

A person is exposed to a toxin that blocks acetylcholine release at all autonomic ganglia. Which of the following would most likely occur?

Accepted Answer

Both sympathetic and parasympathetic functions would be impaired.

Question 19

Which of the following is a real-life example of sympathetic nervous system activation?

Accepted Answer

Sweating and increased heart rate during a public speaking event

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the effect of the parasympathetic nervous system on the heart?

Accepted Answer

It decreases heart rate.

The Autonomic Nervous System and Homeostasis

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards