The autonomic nervous system comprises of the

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks what parts make up the autonomic nervous system (ANS).

Step 2: Explain the concept The nervous system has two main divisions:

• Central Nervous System (CNS): the brain and spinal cord.
• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): the nerves outside the CNS. It is divided into: • the somatic system (voluntary actions, e.g. moving your arm), and • the autonomic system (involuntary actions, e.g. heartbeat, digestion, sweating, pupil size).

The autonomic nervous system itself has two parts that work in opposition:

• Sympathetic system: the "fight or flight" response. It increases heart rate, widens the pupils, and prepares the body for emergencies.
• Parasympathetic system: the "rest and digest" response. It slows the heart rate, stimulates digestion, and conserves energy.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Brain and spinal cord: these make up the CNS, not the ANS. ✗
• B. Brain and nerves: this is not a standard division. ✗
• C. Dendrite and axon: these are parts of a single neuron. ✗
• D. Spinal cord and neuron: this is not a correct division. ✗
• E. Sympathetic and parasympathetic systems: these are the two components of the ANS. ✓

Step 4: Answer

Exam tip: Remember "ANS = Sympathetic + Parasympathetic". Think of Sympathetic as Stress (fight or flight) and Parasympathetic as Peace (rest and digest). Also, the word "autonomic" sounds like "automatic", which means it works without your conscious control.