the autonomic nervous system

• What are the two main divisions of the nervous system?

  Central nervous system and peripheral nervous system
• What is the autonomic nervous system (ANS) responsible for?

  Controlling involuntary bodily functions
• What is homeostasis?

  Maintaining a constant internal state
• How does the ANS contribute to homeostasis?

  By controlling glands, muscles, and organs
• Why are the actions of the ANS considered involuntary?

  They occur without conscious control
• What are the two divisions of the ANS?

  Sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems
• What does the sympathetic nervous system prepare the body for?

  Fight or flight response
• What physiological changes occur during sympathetic activation?

  Increased heart rate and faster breathing
• What is the role of the parasympathetic nervous system?

  To return the body to resting state
• What is the "rest and digest response" associated with?

  Parasympathetic nervous system activity
• What happens to digestion during physiological arousal?

  Digestion is inhibited
• What occurs when the threat has passed?

  The body returns to a resting state
• What are the physiological changes associated with the sympathetic and parasympathetic states?

  Sympathetic state:

  • Increases heart rate
  • Increases breathing rate
  • Dilates pupils
  • Inhibits digestion
  • Inhibits saliva production
  • Contracts rectum

  
  

  Parasympathetic state:

  • Decreases heart rate
  • Decreases breathing rate
  • Constricts pupils
  • Stimulates digestion
  • Stimulates saliva production
  • Relaxes rectum
• What hormone is released during the fight or flight response?

  Adrenaline
• What is the role of the hypothalamus in the fight or flight response?

  It instructs the ANS to act
• How does adrenaline affect the cardiovascular system?

  It increases heart rate and blood flow
• How do stress and excitement relate to physiological responses?

  They can cause similar bodily sensations
• What might a person feel after the fight or flight response has ended?

  Hungry or thirsty
• What is the effect of the sympathetic state on saliva production?

  It inhibits saliva production
• What is the significance of the "brake" function of the parasympathetic division?

  It reduces heightened bodily activities
• What is the physiological meaning of the term "arousal"?

  A state of heightened physiological activity
• How does the body respond to a perceived threat?

  By activating the sympathetic nervous system
• What is the relationship between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems?

  They work in opposition to maintain balance