What is the difference between a somatic reflex and an autonomic reflex?
A)A somatic reflex is caused by contraction of smooth or cardiac muscles, whereas an autonomic reflex consists of skeletal muscle contraction.
B)A somatic reflex is caused by the secretions of glands, whereas an autonomic reflex consists of contraction of smooth and skeletal muscles.
C)A somatic reflex is caused by contraction of skeletal muscles, whereas an autonomic reflex consists of contraction of smooth or cardiac muscle or secretions of glands.
D)A somatic reflex is caused by contraction of smooth or cardiac muscles, whereas an autonomic reflex consists of the secretions of glands.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A somatic reflex involves the contraction of skeletal muscles in response to a stimulus, such as the knee-jerk reflex. An autonomic reflex involves the contraction of smooth or cardiac muscle or the secretion of glands in response to a stimulus, such as the pupillary reflex or salivary reflex. Therefore, option C correctly differentiates between the two types of reflexes.

What Is the Difference Between a Somatic Reflex and an Autonomic