Autonomic Nervous System
Definition
The Autonomic Nervous System is a component of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. It operates automatically without conscious effort, regulating essential functions to maintain homeostasis.
Analogy
Think of the ANS as the autopilot system of an airplane which manages essential operations without needing manual input from the pilots. Just like autopilot adjusts the plane's speed, altitude, and direction to ensure a smooth flight, the ANS adjusts bodily functions to keep you alive and well without your conscious control.
Related terms
Sympathetic Nervous System: Part of the ANS responsible for the body's "fight or flight" response, preparing the body for action by increasing heart rate and blood pressure.
Parasympathetic Nervous System: Part of the ANS involved in "rest and digest" activities, promoting relaxation and conservation of energy by slowing down heart rate and increasing digestive activities.
Homeostasis: The process by which living organisms regulate internal conditions (such as temperature and pH) to maintain a stable, constant condition necessary for survival
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.