Question

Why does the sympathetic division of the ans have a more generalized effect in the body?

a. one preganglionic neuron synapses with many postganglionic neurons
b. one preganglionic neuron synapses with one or two postganglionic neurons
c. the secretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine can effect many organs
d. both choices a and c are correct?

Answer 1

The answer is D ( both choices A and C are correct) because one preganglionic neuron synapses with many postganglionic neurons and also the secretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine can effect many organs. The autonomic nervous system has two divisions namely the sympathetic division and the parasympathetic division. The two divisions have antagonistic effects on internal organs they send nerves to act on. The sympathetic nervous system stimulates body's flight or flight response and it is constantly active at a basic level to maintain homeostasis (internal body environment)

Answer 2

The right answer is D.

The sympathetic nervous system is one of the three components of the autonomic nervous system, managing the activity of visceral organs and the automatic functions of the body, such as breathing or beating of the heart. The sympathetic nervous system is involved in many unconscious physiological activities through two neuromodulators of the catecholamine family: adrenaline, but especially norepinephrine.

At the level of the sympathetic nervous system:

* A pre-ganglionary neuron innervates approximately twenty ganglionic neurons

* A ganglionic neuron innervates several effectors (multiple organs)

This difference in axon branching explains in part the differences in the extent of the effects of sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.