Neuro phys 1

Question 1

What is the primary function of the somatic nervous system?

Answer 1

voluntary movement

Question 2

What is the primary function of the autonomic nervous system?

Answer 2

homestasis + stress redirecting resources to where they are most needed

Question 3

What is the primary difference between the function of the somatic and of the autonomic nervous systems?

Answer 3

somatic nervous system is much faster in the responses it is able to generate, however autonomic is able to better coordinate multiple body systems

Question 4

Where along the parasympathetic divisions originate from?

Answer 4

CNIII, VII, IX and X + S1 to S3

Question 5

Where do the sympathetic divisions originate from?

Answer 5

T1 to L4

Question 6

Why are most body systems innervated by both sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves?

Answer 6

allows for antagonistic control

Question 7

How does the somatic nervous system maintain precise, reliable control of skeletal muscle? (four factors)

Answer 7

Only one neuron per muscle fibre, ionotropic transmission, only one neuron and one synapse between the spinal cord and the target muscle, rapid enzymatic degradation exists

Question 8

Explain how the structure of the autonomic nervous enables it to function in the way it does: (six main factors)

Answer 8

1. Dual innervation- allows for homeostasis
2. ANS uses a 2 neuron chain (pre- myelinated, post-unmyelinated)
3. Most synapses between pre and post ganglionic cells occur within autonomic ganglia
4. Varicosities (not nerve endings)- allows transmitter to reach multiple targets
5. ANS effectors express metabotropic receptors
6. Sympathetic specialisation: adrenal gland, releases adrenaline from adrenal gland into the bloodstream

Question 9

What is the main exception to acetylcholine receptors in the autonomic nervous system?

Answer 9

postganglionic sympathetic neurons

Question 10

Compare the receptor types that are seen in somatic and autonomic nervous systems:

Answer 10

Somatic- Ionotropic

Autonomic- ionotropic & metabotropic

Question 11

What is the function of the hypothalamus?

Answer 11

The highest level of coordination it is the control centre of the brain

Question 12

What is the function of the brain stem?

Answer 12

receives input from other brain regions and is responsible for autonomic functions

Question 13

What is the function of the spinal cord?

Answer 13

spinal cord- in charge of low level function visceral reflexes