Study Question Eighteen

• Q18. If given a situation, predict the division of the ANS that would be activated. (i.e., eating a big meal like Thanksgiving or running away from a T-Rex)
• Eating a Big Meal:

  • Division Activated: Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS)
• Eating a Big Meal:

  • Reason: During and after a large meal, the body focuses on digestion and nutrient absorption. The PNS promotes "rest and digest" functions, increasing blood flow to the digestive organs, stimulating saliva production, and enhancing peristalsis in the intestines.
• Running Away from a T-Rex:

  • Division Activated: Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)
• Running Away from a T-Rex:

  • Reason: In a high-stress, dangerous situation like encountering a T-Rex, the body would activate the SNS to prepare for "fight or flight." This would involve increased heart rate, dilation of the airways for better oxygen intake, redirection of blood flow away from the digestive system, and mobilization of energy reserves to enhance physical performance.