Question

The division of the nervous system that controls voluntary muscle movement is the a. autonomic nervous system. b. sensory division. c. somatic nervous system. d. parasympathetic division. e. sympathetic division.

Short answer

The division of the nervous system that controls voluntary muscle movement is the 'somatic nervous system'.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the divisions

The human nervous system is divided into two main parts: The Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). The PNS is further divided into the autonomic and somatic nervous systems. The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary actions and is further divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements.

Identifying the correct division

According to the information above, the somatic nervous system is the division that controls voluntary muscle movement.

Matching the option

Among the provided options a to e, the option that matches our solution is 'c. somatic nervous system'.

Key concepts

peripheral nervous system

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is a vast network of nerves that branch out from the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord, to the rest of the body. It is essentially the communication relay between the brain and spinal cord and the limbs and organs. The PNS is crucial for transmitting signals that control body functions.

• Sensory nerves within the PNS send information back to the CNS from the external environment and the body's receptors.
• Motor nerves in the PNS convey instructions from the CNS to muscles and organs, allowing for movement and action.

Understanding PNS helps in realizing how various bodily functions are coordinated, making life-sustaining operations seamless.

voluntary muscle movement

Voluntary muscle movement refers to actions that are under conscious control. These movements are typically planned and initiated by the brain and require coordination and precise control.

• These movements are primarily controlled by the somatic nervous system, which is part of the peripheral nervous system.
• Examples include walking, picking up objects, and speaking, all requiring cognitive effort and planning.

Voluntary movements are crucial for daily activities, allowing individuals to interact and adapt to their environment.

autonomic nervous system

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is integral for regulating involuntary body functions, such as heartbeat, blood flow, and digestion. Unlike voluntary movements, the ANS operates subconsciously to maintain homeostasis.

• It is divided into two main branches: the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, which serve complementary roles.

The ANS ensures the smooth operation of vital bodily functions that are not under conscious control, thus maintaining internal stability.

central nervous system

At the core of the nervous system is the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord. The CNS acts as the control center for the body, processing and interpreting sensory information, and sending out instructions.

• The brain is the primary organ for processing stimuli and initiating responses.
• The spinal cord functions as a conduit for signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

The CNS plays a pivotal role in everything from simple reflexes to complex thoughts and emotions.

sympathetic division

The sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system is often referred to as the "fight or flight" system. It prepares the body to respond to perceived threats or stress.

• When activated, it increases heart rate, dilates airways, and elevates blood flow to muscles.
• This division uses adrenaline to boost the body's ability to handle situations requiring immediate action.

Understanding the sympathetic division helps explain physical reactions during stress or emergencies.

parasympathetic division

In contrast to the sympathetic division, the parasympathetic division is known as the "rest and digest" system. Its primary function is to conserve energy and restore the body to a state of calm after periods of stress.

• It reduces heart rate, promotes digestion, and facilitates recovery and relaxation.
• The parasympathetic division is crucial for maintaining long-term health by promoting bodily functions related to rest and energy storage.

This system's role in balance and recovery underscores its importance in daily life activities, ensuring that the body remains in equilibrium.