Which system is responsible for slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure?

The correct answer is the Parasympathetic Nervous System. This system is part of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary physiological functions. Specifically, the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" activities. It helps to conserve energy and restore the body to a calm and relaxed state after a stressful situation.

When activated, the parasympathetic nervous system releases neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, which slows the heart rate by acting on the heart's pacemaker cells. This process contributes to lowering blood pressure as well, as it reduces the workload on the heart and promotes dilation of blood vessels.

In contrast, the sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for "fight or flight" situations and generally increases heart rate and blood pressure. The central nervous system is primarily responsible for processing information and coordinating activity among different body parts but does not directly control heart rate and blood pressure in the way the parasympathetic system does. The peripheral nervous system consists of all the nerves outside the central nervous system and includes both afferent and efferent fibers, but it does not specifically manage the slowing of heart rate and lowering of blood pressure.

Understanding the distinct roles of these systems clarifies