Parasympathetic ganglia are typically:
a. Located along the spinal cord
b. Located near their target cells
c. Located within the central nervous system
d. Parasympathetic neurons do not synapse in ganglia

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of parasympathetic ganglia in the autonomic nervous system. Parasympathetic ganglia are part of the parasympathetic division, which is responsible for 'rest and digest' functions, such as slowing the heart rate and promoting digestion.

Recall the anatomical location of parasympathetic ganglia. Unlike sympathetic ganglia, which are located near the spinal cord, parasympathetic ganglia are typically located closer to or within the target organs they innervate.

Eliminate incorrect options based on anatomical knowledge: Option (a) is incorrect because parasympathetic ganglia are not located along the spinal cord; this is characteristic of sympathetic ganglia. Option (c) is incorrect because ganglia are structures outside the central nervous system (CNS), where synapses occur between neurons.

Evaluate option (d). This option is incorrect because parasympathetic neurons do synapse in ganglia. The preganglionic neurons synapse with postganglionic neurons in parasympathetic ganglia.

Confirm that option (b) is correct. Parasympathetic ganglia are located near or within their target cells, which aligns with the parasympathetic division's function of localized and specific control of target organs.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

The parasympathetic nervous system is one of the two main divisions of the autonomic nervous system, responsible for promoting 'rest and digest' functions. It conserves energy by slowing down the heart rate and increasing intestinal and gland activity. Understanding its role helps clarify how parasympathetic ganglia function in relation to target organs.

Ganglia Location

Ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies located outside the central nervous system. In the parasympathetic nervous system, ganglia are typically found near or within the walls of the target organs they innervate, which allows for more localized control of physiological functions. This contrasts with the sympathetic nervous system, where ganglia are located closer to the spinal cord.

Neuronal Synapse

A synapse is a junction where nerve impulses are transmitted from one neuron to another. In the context of the parasympathetic nervous system, neurons synapse in ganglia before reaching their target cells, which is essential for the modulation of signals. This synaptic connection is crucial for the effective transmission of signals that regulate bodily functions.

Recommended video:

Guided course