The voluntary nervous system(somatic) refers to the neurons over
which you have control. When you make the decision to move around, these neurons send the impulse
from the central nervous system(CNS) to the skeletal muscles.
The
involuntary nervous system(autonomic) refers to the neurons that are not under your conscious
control. These neurons are responsible for sending impulses from the CNS to the cardiac muscles
(heart), smooth muscles (e.g. muscles lining the gut) and
glands.
The autonomic nervous system again divides into two
antagonistic systems- the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. Also called the “fight
or flight” system, the sympathetic nervous system mobilizes the body for activity, accelerating
heart rate, constricting blood vessels, and raising blood pressure. On the other hand, the
parasympathetic nervous system conserves energy, promoting “housekeeping” functions by slowing
heart rate, increasing intestinal and gland activity, and relaxing sphincter
muscles.
A chart that should help you organize these terms can be
found in the link below.
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