Chapter 13.1, Problem 1QC

Summary Introduction

To explain: The difference between the functions of the somatic nervous system and autonomic nervous systems.

Concept introduction:

The nervous system controls and coordinates all the activities of the animals. It is classified into two major types, namely the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). According to the function, the PNS is further divided into the somatic nervous system (SNS) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS).

Explanation of Solution

In a somatic nervous system, a single somatic motor neuron travels from the central nervous system to the skeletal muscle. It regulates the voluntary motor control. It innervates the voluntary skeletal muscles and detects the sensory stimuli, such as noise, taste, smell, light, pain, touch, and temperature. The functions of the SNS include posture and movement.

By contrast, in an autonomic nervous system, a preganglionic autonomic neuron travels from the central nervous system to an autonomic ganglion. It regulates the internal environment of the body through the involuntary control of the organ system. It innervates the involuntary cardiac muscles, smooth muscles, and glands, and detects the sensory stimuli, such as pH, salinity, and blood pressure. The functions of the ANS include secretion and metabolism control.