Texas Esthetician License Practice Exam

Which part of the nervous system controls the involuntary muscles?

1. Central nervous system

2. Peripheral nervous system

3. Somatic nervous system

4. Autonomic nervous system

The correct answer is: Autonomic nervous system

The autonomic nervous system is responsible for controlling involuntary muscles and bodily functions that are not consciously directed. This includes the regulation of smooth muscles found in the walls of internal organs, such as the stomach and intestines, as well as cardiac muscles in the heart. This system operates automatically, managing essential functions like heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate, without requiring conscious thought or effort from an individual. In contrast, the central nervous system primarily encompasses the brain and spinal cord, serving as the processing center for information. The peripheral nervous system connects the central nervous system to the limbs and organs, facilitating communication but does not directly control involuntary muscle movements. The somatic nervous system, on the other hand, is a component of the peripheral nervous system that governs voluntary movement by controlling skeletal muscles. Hence, the autonomic nervous system is the correct answer as it specifically deals with the involuntary control of muscles and bodily functions.