Which of the following is a function of the somatic nervous system?

Question

Which of the following is  a function of the somatic nervous system?

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

To evaluate the function of the somatic nervous system, consider what each branch of the nervous system typically innervates.

Option a) innervation of endocrine glands. Endocrine glands are primarily controlled by the autonomic nervous system and endocrine feedback, not the somatic nervous system, so this is not a somatic function.

Option b) innervation of cardiac muscle. Cardiac muscle is controlled by the autonomic nervous system (sympathetic and parasympathetic) and intrinsic cardiac mechanisms, not by the somatic system, so this is incorrect for somatic control.

Option c) innervation of skeletal muscle. The somatic nervous system directly innervates skeletal (voluntary) muscles via motor neurons, enabling conscious control of movement. This aligns with the classic role of the somatic division.

Option d) innervation of glands. Gland innervation—salivary, sweat, endocrine-like secretions—occurs under autonomic regulation, not the somatic pathway, so this is not a somatic function.

Option e) innervation of smooth muscle of the digestive tract. Smooth muscle in the digestive tract is governed by the autonomic nervous system and enteric nervous system, not somatic nerves, making this incorrect in the somatic context.

In summary, the somatic nervous system is characterized by its direct control over voluntary skeletal muscle via motor neurons, distinguishing it from autonomic targets like glands, cardiac, and smooth muscle. Thus, option c) best reflects a somatic nervous system function.

Which of the following is a function of the somatic nervous system?

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