Question

multiple choice 2 points

the motor portion of the pns consists of the somatic division (sometimes call the involuntary system), which controls the ____________.

• cardiac muscles
• glands
• all of these answers are correct
• skeletal muscles
• smooth muscles

Explanation:

Analyze the question stem

Using the Somatic Nervous System Functions knowledge point

The question asks about the motor portion of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), specifically focusing on the somatic division. The somatic nervous system is responsible for transmitting sensory and motor signals between the central nervous system and the external environment, directing voluntary movements.

Identify the target effectors

Using the Skeletal Muscle Contraction knowledge point

The somatic motor division specifically innervates skeletal muscles to allow voluntary control of body movements. In contrast, autonomic motor pathways (the involuntary system) control cardiac muscle, smooth muscle, and glands. Note that the parenthetical phrase in the question stem, "(sometimes call the involuntary system)", contains a typographical error in the test draft, as the somatic division is actually the voluntary system; however, the somatic division itself functionally and uniquely controls skeletal muscles.

Evaluate the given options

• cardiac muscles: Controlled by the autonomic (involuntary) nervous system.
• glands: Controlled by the autonomic (involuntary) nervous system.
• all of these answers are correct: Incorrect, as the effectors belong to different divisions.
• skeletal muscles: Correct, as they are the direct target of the somatic motor division.
• smooth muscles: Controlled by the autonomic (involuntary) nervous system.

Answer:

• cardiac muscles
• glands
• all of these answers are correct
• skeletal muscles (Correct answer)
• smooth muscles