Question

An anatomy and physiology instructor scratches chalk across the blackboard causing a screeching sound. Several students get a feeling like their hair is standing on end. This response is part of the sympathetic stress reaction and is called what?

A) Diaphoresis
B) Diuresis
C) Piloerection
D) Vasoconstriction

Answer 1

The physiological response of hair standing on end due to a stressor like a screeching sound is called piloerection, part of the sympathetic stress reaction synonymous with the fight-or-flight response.

Step-by-step explanation:

The screeching sound of chalk across the blackboard triggering a reaction where students feel like their hair is standing on end is a part of the sympathetic stress reaction. This reaction is known as piloerection. It occurs when the sympathetic nervous system is activated during a stress response, which leads to the contraction of the tiny muscles at the base of hair follicles, causing the hairs to stand up. This is a similar physiological change to what happens during the fight-or-flight response, which is the body's way of preparing to either confront a threat or flee from it. Other aspects of the fight-or-flight response include increased heart rate, pupil dilation, and increased breathing, all triggered by hormones like adrenaline.