Question

Which of the following is a function of the efferent division of the nervous system?

A) providing sensation of the internal and external environments
B) integrating sensory information
C) coordinating voluntary and involuntary activities
D) sending signals to muscles
E) regulating or controlling peripheral structures and systems

Answer 1

The efferent division of the nervous system is responsible for sending signals to muscles and glands to stimulate action, which corresponds to option D in the provided question.

Step-by-step explanation:

The function of the efferent division of the nervous system involves sending signals from the central nervous system to peripheral structures, such as muscles and glands. This division includes both the somatic nervous system (SNS) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The SNS is responsible for voluntary control over skeletal muscles, while the ANS governs involuntary functions that affect internal organs, cardiac and smooth muscle tissue, or glands to produce secretions. Specifically, the role of efferent neurons is to carry motor commands from the central nervous system to the peripheral tissues and systems. These efferent fibers, or motor neurons, stimulate action such as muscle contraction.

Based on the provided definitions, the accurate function of the efferent division of the nervous system, as stated in the student's options, would be sending signals to muscles (option D). The efferent division controls the execution of movements and responses, rather than sensation or integration functions.