Malcolm is studying alone in his room late at night when he hears a loud noise downstairs. His heartbeat increases significantly and his breathing becomes shallow. He wonders if a burglar has entered the house and decides to investigate. When he gets downstairs, he discovers his cat has knocked over a plant stand. His body begins to relax and return to normal. Which part of his nervous system was responsible for putting Malcolm's body on "high alert" when he did not know the source of the sound?
A) spinal cord
B) somatic nervous system
C) sympathetic nervous system
D) parasympathetic nervous system

Question

Malcolm is studying alone in his room late at night when he hears a loud noise downstairs. His heartbeat increases significantly and his breathing becomes shallow. He wonders if a burglar has entered the house and decides to investigate. When he gets downstairs, he discovers his cat has knocked over a plant stand. His body begins to relax and return to normal. Which part of his nervous system was responsible for putting Malcolm's body on "high alert" when he did not know the source of the sound?
A) spinal cord
B) somatic nervous system
C) sympathetic nervous system 
D) parasympathetic nervous system

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the body's "fight or flight" response to perceived threats, such as the potential presence of a burglar. This response includes increased heart rate and breathing, preparing the body for action. Once Malcolm discovered the source of the noise and realized there was no real danger, his body was able to relax and return to normal.

Malcolm Is Studying Alone in His Room Late at Night