Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
d. Sympathetic tone controls the resting rate of the heart.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of 'sympathetic tone' and its role in the autonomic nervous system. Sympathetic tone refers to the baseline level of activity in the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response.
2. Step 2: Recall the role of the parasympathetic division in controlling the resting heart rate. The parasympathetic division, specifically through the vagus nerve, is primarily responsible for maintaining the resting heart rate by slowing it down.
3. Step 3: Compare the roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. While the sympathetic division can increase heart rate during stress or activity, it does not control the resting heart rate under normal conditions.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the statement: 'Sympathetic tone controls the resting rate of the heart.' Based on the information above, this statement is false because the parasympathetic tone, not sympathetic tone, controls the resting heart rate.
5. Step 5: Correct the false statement to make it true: 'Parasympathetic tone controls the resting rate of the heart.'

Key Concepts

Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses. It increases heart rate, dilates airways, and redirects blood flow to muscles, among other functions. Understanding its role is crucial for evaluating statements about heart rate regulation.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

The parasympathetic nervous system is the counterpart to the sympathetic system, responsible for 'rest and digest' activities. It decreases heart rate and promotes relaxation and recovery. This system primarily controls the resting heart rate, making it essential for correcting the false statement.

Heart Rate Regulation

Heart rate regulation involves the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. While the sympathetic system increases heart rate during stress, the parasympathetic system lowers it during restful states. Understanding this balance is key to accurately assessing statements about heart rate control.