Questions and Answers
What is the autonomic nervous system?
The autonomic nervous system is a control system that acts largely unconsciously and regulates bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, pupillary response, urination, and sexual arousal.
What are the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system?
What is a pre-ganglionic fiber?
The first neuron to run from the CNS to the autonomic ganglion.
What is a post-ganglionic fiber?
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Which neurotransmitters are used by the autonomic nervous system?
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What is the function of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system?
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What characterizes the parasympathetic division?
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What is the vagus nerve associated with in the autonomic nervous system?
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Study Notes
Autonomic Nervous System Overview
- The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, pupillary response, urination, and sexual arousal.
- Functions of the ANS are largely unconscious and essential for homeostasis.
Divisions of the ANS
- The ANS is divided into two primary branches: sympathetic and parasympathetic.
Neurons in the ANS
- Pre-ganglionic fibers: First neurons extending from the central nervous system (CNS) to autonomic ganglia.
- Post-ganglionic fibers: Second neurons that connect ganglia to peripheral effectors like cardiac muscle, smooth muscle, and glands.
Neurotransmitters
- The ANS utilizes two key neurotransmitters: acetylcholine and norepinephrine.
- Acetylcholine is used by both sympathetic and parasympathetic neurons; norepinephrine primarily serves sympathetic responses.
Sympathetic Division
- Active during physical activity or stress, associated with the "Fight or Flight" response.
- Increases glucose availability, accelerates heart rate, dilates pupils, and decreases digestive activity.
- Neurons originate from the lateral horn of the thoracic and lumbar spinal cord.
Parasympathetic Division
- Functions to conserve energy and maintain bodily resources during "rest and repose."
- Neurons originate from the brainstem and sacral spinal regions, with cranial nerves 3, 7, 9, and 10 involved in parasympathetic functions.
- Parasympathetic ganglia are located near or within the organs being regulated.
Vagus Nerve
- The vagus nerve accounts for about 90% of parasympathetic control, playing a crucial role in heart and digestive system regulation.
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Description
Explore the autonomic nervous system and its two main divisions, the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. This quiz will help reinforce your understanding of how these systems regulate vital bodily functions. Perfect for students in health or biology courses.
