Question

Which of the following effects is characteristic of the parasympathetic nervous system?

1) decreases heart rate
2) decreases activity of the digestive system
3) increases metabolic rate
4) stimulates sweat glands to produce perspiration
5) decreases urine output

Answer 1

Option 1.

The parasympathetic nervous system is known for its role in returning the body to a 'rest and digest' state, and one of its key effects is to decrease the heart rate.

Step-by-step explanation:

The parasympathetic nervous system is known for its role in returning the body to a 'rest and digest' state following stress or activity.

This is evident in its characteristic effects of slowing the heart rate, stimulating the activity of the digestive system, and maintaining internal homeostasis.

One of the key effects of the parasympathetic nervous system is to decrease the heart rate after the 'fight-or-flight' response triggered by the sympathetic nervous system has passed.

This return to a state of calm allows for the conservation of energy and the promotion of bodily functions that are associated with rest.

Therefore, the correct option that is characteristic of the parasympathetic nervous system is 1) decreases heart rate. Please mention this correct option in the final answer.