What are the two branches of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

• A. Central and Peripheral
• B. Enteric and Central
• C. Parasympathetic and Sympathetic
• D. Somatic and Autonomic

Answer: (C)

The autonomic nervous system has two main divisions that regulate involuntary functions and often work in opposition to keep the body in balance. The sympathetic division prepares the body for action—“fight or flight”—increasing heart rate, opening airways, and redirecting energy, while the parasympathetic division promotes relaxation and conservation of energy—“rest and digest”—slowing the heart rate and stimulating digestion. Many organs receive input from both divisions, allowing precise, context-dependent control (dual innervation). Other terms describe different concepts: central versus peripheral refers to location in the nervous system, the enteric network is a separate gut-centered system, and somatic refers to voluntary, not autonomic, control.