Which two components make up the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is comprised of two primary components: the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.

The sympathetic system is often referred to as the "fight or flight" system, preparing the body for stressful or emergency situations. It increases heart rate, dilates the airways, and inhibits digestive processes, among other effects aimed at optimizing the body's performance during stress.

Conversely, the parasympathetic system is known as the "rest and digest" system. Its function is to promote a state of calm, facilitating processes such as digestion and conserving energy by slowing the heart rate and promoting activities that occur when the body is at rest.

The other options do not accurately delineate the components of the ANS. The central nervous system, while crucial to overall function and control of the body, does not fall under the ANS. The somatic system refers to voluntary control of body movements via skeletal muscles, which is distinct from the autonomic function. Afferent and efferent details pertain more broadly to neural pathways that conduct sensory input to the central nervous system and motor output away from it, rather than specifically outlining components of the ANS. Thus, the correct answer reflects the essential roles of the sympathetic