Which system is responsible for voluntary muscles in the body?

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The correct choice that identifies the system responsible for voluntary muscles in the body is the Peripheral Nervous System. This system includes all the nerves and ganglia outside of the brain and spinal cord and has two main divisions: the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.

The somatic nervous system, which is a part of the Peripheral Nervous System, specifically controls voluntary movements by transmitting sensory and motor signals to and from the central nervous system. It allows individuals to perform actions that are consciously controlled, such as walking, talking, or manipulating objects with their hands.

Understanding the role of the other systems provides further clarity:

  • The Central Nervous System consists of the brain and spinal cord and is primarily responsible for processing information and coordinating bodily functions, but it does not directly control voluntary muscle movements.

  • The Autonomic Nervous System regulates involuntary functions, such as heart rate and digestion, and operates without conscious control. Thus, it does not manage voluntary muscle actions.

  • The Sympathetic Nervous System is a subdivision of the Autonomic Nervous System that prepares the body for stressful or emergency situations, often referred to as the "fight or flight" response. It does not oversee voluntary muscle control but instead influences automatic bodily functions.

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