The somatic nervous system is responsible for controlling which of the following?

The somatic nervous system is responsible for controlling which of the following?

• A. Skeletal muscles
• B. Cardiac muscle
• C. Smooth muscle
• D. Glands

Answer: (A)

Voluntary control of movement is being tested. The somatic nervous system sends motor commands from the CNS to skeletal muscles, enabling conscious movement and reflex actions through the neuromuscular junction (acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter here). In contrast, cardiac and smooth muscles, as well as most glands, are regulated by the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary functions. Therefore, the somatic system is responsible for skeletal muscles, making that option the best choice.

Voluntary control of movement is being tested. The somatic nervous system sends motor commands from the CNS to skeletal muscles, enabling conscious movement and reflex actions through the neuromuscular junction (acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter here). In contrast, cardiac and smooth muscles, as well as most glands, are regulated by the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary functions. Therefore, the somatic system is responsible for skeletal muscles, making that option the best choice.