Final answer:
The dominant nervous system during this situation is the somatic nervous system (SNS) because it controls the conscious perception and voluntary motor responses, including the reflexive response of the 16-year-old jumping up and running out of his room.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nervous system that is dominant during the situation described is the somatic nervous system (SNS). The SNS is responsible for conscious perception and voluntary motor responses, such as the 16-year-old jumping up and running out of his room. This response is a reflex involving skeletal muscle contractions, which are controlled by the SNS.
During the prank, the sound of the pot and wooden spoon clanging together startles the 16-year-old and triggers an automatic response.
This response happens without a conscious decision to perform it. It is important to note that the SNS also allows for voluntary motor responses, like when the 16-year-old consciously decides to run out of his room.