Question

When we feel fear or tension, the heartbeat increases and digestion slows down without our control.
(a) Name the division of the autonomic nervous system that controls these actions.
(b) Write any two other actions controlled by this nervous system during such situations.

Hint:

Remember: Sympathetic nervous system = "fight or flight" response (increases heart rate, breathing, pupil size and decreases digestion).

Answer 1

Step 1: Understand the situation described.
The condition of fear or tension represents a stress or emergency situation in the body. During such situations, certain involuntary actions like increased heartbeat and reduced digestion occur automatically.
Step 2: Identify the responsible division.
These responses are controlled by the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system, which prepares the body for fight or flight response.
Step 3: Answer part (a).
Therefore, the division responsible is the sympathetic nervous system.
Step 4: Identify other actions during stress.
During such situations, the sympathetic nervous system also:
- Dilates the pupils to allow more light into the eyes
- Increases the rate of breathing to supply more oxygen
- Diverts blood flow from digestive organs to muscles
- Causes sweating
Step 5: Answer part (b).
Any two actions are: pupil dilation and increase in breathing rate.