sympathetic and parasympathetic

Question 1

Location of Ganglia

Answer 1

Sympathetic: Ganglia (clusters of nerve cell bodies) are located closer to the spinal cord.
Parasympathetic: Ganglia are located closer to or within target organs, near the site of action.

Question 2

Preganglionic and Postganglionic Neurons

Answer 2

Sympathetic: preganglionic neurons are relatively short, and postganglionic neurons are long.
Parasympathetic: preganglionic neurons are long, and postganglionic neurons are relatively short.

Question 3

Response to Stress vs. Rest and Digest

Answer 3

Sympathetic: Activated in response to stress, danger, or emergency situations. It prepares the body for “fight or flight” responses, increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, and redirecting blood flow away from digestion.
Parasympathetic: Activated during periods of rest and relaxation. It promotes “rest and digest” responses, conserving energy, slowing heart rate, and enhancing digestion.

Question 4

Neurotransmitters

Answer 4

Sympathetic: Preganglionic neurons release acetylcholine, and postganglionic neurons release norepinephrine.
Parasympathetic: Both preganglionic and postganglionic neurons release acetylcholine.

Question 5

Effects on Organs

Answer 5

Sympathetic: Increases heart rate, dilates airways, constricts blood vessels, and inhibits digestion.
Parasympathetic: Slows heart rate, constricts airways, dilates blood vessels (localized), and stimulates digestion.