Peripheral Nervous System Efferent Division

Flashcards covering the key concepts related to the Efferent Division of the Peripheral Nervous System.

What direction does the efferent nervous system transmit information?

The efferent nervous system transmits information away from the central nervous system.

What are the two divisions of the efferent nervous system, and what do they each control?

The two divisions are the somatic nervous system (controls voluntary movements) and the autonomic nervous system (controls involuntary functions).

What is a key difference between the autonomic and somatic nervous systems regarding control?

The somatic nervous system is under voluntary control, while the autonomic nervous system is under involuntary control.

Where do the neurons of the autonomic nervous system originate, and where do their axons go?

Neurons originate in the central nervous system and their axons go to target organs.

What neurotransmitters are released from preganglionic neurons in the autonomic nervous system?

Preganglionic neurons release acetylcholine.

What neurotransmitters are released from postganglionic neurons in the autonomic nervous system?

Postganglionic neurons release either norepinephrine or acetylcholine, depending on the division.

What types of responses does the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system control?

The sympathetic division controls 'fight or flight' responses.

What types of responses does the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system control?

The parasympathetic division controls 'rest and digest' responses.

How are sympathetic and parasympathetic responses balanced in organs?

They provide dual innervation, where both divisions innervate the same organs to regulate their function.

What would sympathetic activation look like in the heart?

Sympathetic activation increases heart rate and force of contraction.

What would parasympathetic activation look like in the heart?

Parasympathetic activation decreases heart rate.

Where do neurons of the somatic nervous system originate, and where do they terminate?

Neurons originate in the central nervous system and terminate at skeletal muscle.