Question

When the micturation reflex is initiated, the brain responds by __________ action potentials (APs) in somatic motor neurons, resulting in the relaxation of the __________ urinary sphincter so urine can be voided.

Answer 1

1. Reducing

2. External

Step-by-step explanation:

The external urinary sphincter, also called as external urethral sphincter consists of skeletal muscles. During micturition reflex, the micturition center present in the brain serves to inhibit the somatic motor neurons by reducing their action potential. These somatic motor neurons innervate in the external urinary sphincter.

Inhibition of somatic motor neurons of the external urinary sphincter results in relaxation of the sphincter to facilitate the act of urination.