which of the following correctly paid subdivisions within the major divisions of the human nervous system? A.) Somatic… endocrine and exocrine B.) Central… somatic amd sympathetic C.) Autonomic… sympathetic and parasympathetic D.) Sympathetic… parasympathetic and autonomic
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: C.) Autonomic… sympathetic and parasympathetic.
Explanation:
The human nervous system is divided into several major divisions, each with specific roles in maintaining bodily functions and enabling interaction with the environment. Among these divisions, the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is crucial in regulating involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, and pupil dilation.
The autonomic nervous system itself is divided into two primary subdivisions:
- Sympathetic nervous system (SNS): This division is primarily responsible for preparing the body for stressful or emergency situations, often referred to as the “fight or flight” response. It activates processes like increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and the release of adrenaline to prepare the body to react quickly to threats or challenges.
- Parasympathetic nervous system (PNS): In contrast, the parasympathetic nervous system promotes relaxation and energy conservation, often described as the “rest and digest” system. It is involved in processes such as lowering the heart rate, stimulating digestion, and facilitating rest and recovery after stress.
Both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions are part of the autonomic nervous system, which works involuntarily to regulate functions that the body does not consciously control. This is different from the somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary movements and is associated with skeletal muscles.
The other options are incorrect for the following reasons:
- A (Somatic… endocrine and exocrine): The somatic nervous system does not include the endocrine or exocrine systems. These two are involved in hormone secretion and glandular function, not voluntary muscle control.
- B (Central… somatic and sympathetic): The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord, but the somatic and sympathetic divisions belong to the peripheral nervous system (PNS), not the CNS.
- D (Sympathetic… parasympathetic and autonomic): This is incorrect because the sympathetic and parasympathetic are both subdivisions of the autonomic nervous system, not separate from it.
Thus, the most accurate answer is C since the sympathetic and parasympathetic are indeed the primary subdivisions of the autonomic nervous system.