[Campbell Biology P.1138] Which statement accurately describes the general relationship betwe... | Practice Question

Which statement accurately describes the general relationship between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system?

  • A: They always exert antagonistic effects on all internal organs.
  • B: The sympathetic division primarily promotes 'rest and digest' functions, while the parasympathetic division promotes 'fight-or-flight' responses.
  • C: They generally have antagonistic effects, except for complementary roles in reproductive activity.
  • D: Both divisions always stimulate the same organs simultaneously, but with different intensities.

Explanation

The text states that 'The sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system have largely antagonistic opposite functions in regulating organ function Figure 49.7 . ... However, in regulating reproductive activity, a function that is not homeostatic, the parasympathetic division complements rather than antagonizes the sympathetic division'.