Controlling Processes

Controlling Processes

Multiple Choice

Robert picks up a metal pan lid that was covering a pot of boiling water, and he drops it immediately. Cells in his fingers sent the message that his finger had touched heat. This response is automatic and occurs without conscious thought. What is this response an example of?

• reflex

• instinct

• synapse

• neuron

​Explanation

​A reflex is an automatic response that takes place without conscious control. Stimuli trigger a reflex arc, which is also stored in the brain as a memory. An instinct is an inherited behavior, and a neuron is a nerve cell. The synapse is the gap between nerve cells.

Multiple Choice

The central nervous system is composed of the brain and spinal cord. The digestive system is composed of the stomach and other organs that help you break down food. Which of the following is an example of the two systems interacting?

• you feel a pain when you take a sharp breath

• you feel your pulse speed up after exercising

• you feel tired after a long school day

• you feel hungry at lunchtime

​Explanation

​You feel hungry at lunchtime because the digestive system (the stomach) and the nervous system interact.

Multiple Choice

Humans need to breathe to survive. Breathing is an involuntary action. Which of the following describes how systems in the body interact to keep your involuntary functions going?

• the nervous system interacts with the circulatory system to maintain your heartrate

• the nervous system interacts with the digestive system to help you chew your food

• the nervous system interacts with your respiratory system so you can take a deep breath

• the nervous system interacts with your excretory system to help you eliminate waste

​Explanation

​Breathing is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which allows it to continue without our having to think about it. However, when we want to take a deep breath, the voluntary nervous system triggers the lungs to inhale more deeply than usual.