Which of the following best describes the basic function of the autonomic nervous system?

a. Controls the somatic nervous system

b. Controls automatic functions to maintain homeostasis

c. Detects somatic sensory information

d. All of the above

Video transcript

Hi, everyone. Let's take a look at this practice problem together. The following includes the functions of the autonomic nervous system. Except the answer options are a heart rate regulation. B, skeletal muscle contraction, see gastrointestinal function and D blood pressure regulation. Now recall that the autonomic nervous system is responsible for vital bodily functions that are involuntary, meaning it can function without conscious control. So which of the answer options is not an involuntary function. Remember we're looking for the exception, option, a heart rate regulation. This is controlled by both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system. So we can go ahead and eliminate. Option A option CG I function is also a function of the autonomic nervous system. It's an involuntary process. We don't have to think about digesting our food. So option C is also incorrect. Option D, blood pressure regulation again is something that we cannot consciously control. So option D, we can eliminate. The correct answer is skeletal muscle contraction. This is a voluntary and conscious movement that is controlled by the somatic nervous system. So the correct answer is option B, skeletal muscle contraction. All right, everyone. I hope you found this helpful and I'll see you soon for the next practice problem.