Autonomics20 Part 1

What are the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system and their functions?

Sympathetic - fight or flight; Parasympathetic - feed and breed/resting and digesting.

What neurotransmitter is used by postganglionic fibers of the sympathetic nervous system?

Norepinephrine (NE).

What is the primary function of the parasympathetic nervous system?

To promote rest and digestion activities.

How many motor neurons are there in autonomic fiber pathways?

Two motor neurons.

What is meant by 'autonomic tone'?

Continuous low-level firing of sympathetic or parasympathetic systems.

Which nerves are responsible for the parasympathetic outflow?

Cranial Nerves III, VII, IX, and X.

What is the postganglionic neurotransmitter used in the parasympathetic nervous system?

Acetylcholine (ACh).

What is the location of ganglia in the sympathetic nervous system?

Ganglia close to the spinal cord.

What are some physical indications of the fight or flight response?

Pale or flushed skin, dilated pupils, trembling, rapid heartbeat, and breathing.

What is the role of the cranial nerves in the parasympathetic system?

They control various functions such as pupil constriction, tear production, and salivation.