PNS Divisions and Functions — NEET Biology

Correct answer: C — S3, S4 and S5 are correct

The core concept tested here is the role and characteristics of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). S1. The ANS primarily transmits impulses from the Central Nervous System (CNS) to skeletal muscles, facilitating voluntary actions. This statement is incorrect. The somatic neural system relays impulses to skeletal muscles for voluntary actions. The ANS transmits impulses to involuntary organs and smooth muscles. S2. It functions largely under conscious control, allowing deliberate regulation of heart rate and digestion. This statement is incorrect. The ANS functions under involuntary control, regulating processes like heart rate and digestion without conscious effort. S3. The ANS is further classified into sympathetic and parasympathetic neural systems. This statement is correct, as the NCERT text specifies this classification. S4. It regulates the activity of involuntary organs and smooth muscles of the body. This statement is correct, directly aligning with the NCERT definition of ANS function. S5. The visceral nervous system, which includes ganglia and plexuses, is a part of the ANS, mediating impulses to and from the viscera. This statement is correct. While the NCERT states the visceral nervous system is part of the Peripheral Nervous System, it is intricately linked and often considered synonymous with or a major component of the autonomic nervous system in its functional scope, dealing with viscera and having ganglia/plexuses. Therefore, statements S3, S4 and S5 are correct. The correct option is C because S3, S4, and S5 accurately describe the ANS. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they include false statements (S1, S2) or exclude true ones. Recap: The Autonomic Nervous System is an involuntary system that regulates internal organs and smooth muscles, divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, and includes the visceral nervous system.