MCAT Biology Question 53: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 53

8. Which of the following statements concerning the somatic division of the peripheral nervous system is INCORRECT?

  • A. Its pathways innervate skeletal muscle.
  • B. Its pathways are usually voluntary.
  • C. Some of its pathways are referred to as reflex arcs.
  • D. Its pathways always involve more than two neurons.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

The somatic division of the peripheral nervous system innervates skeletal muscles and is responsible for voluntary movement. Some of the pathways in this part of the nervous system are reflex arcs, which are reflexive responses to certain stimuli that involve only a sensory and a motor neuron. These neurons synapse in the spinal cord and do not require signaling from the brain. The pathways of the somatic division can involve two, three, or more neurons, depending on the type of signal. The correct answer therefore is choice (D).

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