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HMS, BM EQ-Bank 937

Analyse how damage to different components of the peripheral nervous system would affect an athlete's performance in basketball.   (8 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • Damage to sensory neurons would impair the athlete’s ability to receive feedback about body position, potentially causing poor shooting accuracy as they wouldn’t accurately sense arm position or applied force.
  • Injury to motor neurons would directly affect muscle activation, potentially causing weakness or inability to contract specific muscle groups, resulting in reduced jumping ability, speed, or ball-handling precision.
  • Peripheral nerve damage in the hands would diminish tactile sensation needed for optimal ball control, making dribbling and passing less precise, especially without visual confirmation.
  • Damage to proprioceptive pathways would significantly impair the athlete’s spatial awareness and balance, reducing their ability to perform complex movements like pivoting or changing direction without watching their feet.
  • Autonomic nervous system dysfunction could prevent appropriate cardiovascular responses during play, limiting the increased heart rate and blood flow needed during high-intensity periods of the game.
  • Injury to nerves controlling the ankle could lead to decreased stability and increased risk of rolling the ankle during lateral movements and defensive slides.
  • Damage to reflex pathways would slow protective responses to sudden movements on court, increasing vulnerability to collisions with other players.
  • The cumulative effect of peripheral nerve damage would force the athlete to rely more heavily on visual feedback rather than automatic motor programs, significantly reducing performance speed and fluidity during gameplay.
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Sample Answer

  • Damage to sensory neurons would impair the athlete’s ability to receive feedback about body position, potentially causing poor shooting accuracy as they wouldn’t accurately sense arm position or applied force.
  • Injury to motor neurons would directly affect muscle activation, potentially causing weakness or inability to contract specific muscle groups, resulting in reduced jumping ability, speed, or ball-handling precision.
  • Peripheral nerve damage in the hands would diminish tactile sensation needed for optimal ball control, making dribbling and passing less precise, especially without visual confirmation.
  • Damage to proprioceptive pathways would significantly impair the athlete’s spatial awareness and balance, reducing their ability to perform complex movements like pivoting or changing direction without watching their feet.
  • Autonomic nervous system dysfunction could prevent appropriate cardiovascular responses during play, limiting the increased heart rate and blood flow needed during high-intensity periods of the game.
  • Injury to nerves controlling the ankle could lead to decreased stability and increased risk of rolling the ankle during lateral movements and defensive slides.
  • Damage to reflex pathways would slow protective responses to sudden movements on court, increasing vulnerability to collisions with other players.
  • The cumulative effect of peripheral nerve damage would force the athlete to rely more heavily on visual feedback rather than automatic motor programs, significantly reducing performance speed and fluidity during gameplay.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 936

Explain how the peripheral nervous system controls both voluntary and involuntary responses during a 400 metre sprint race.   (5 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • The somatic part of the peripheral nervous system allows for voluntary control of skeletal muscles through motor neurons, enabling the sprinter to perform the starting position, explosive start, and running technique.
  • Sensory neurons constantly provide feedback about joint positions, muscle tension, and track conditions, allowing the sprinter to make conscious adjustments to stride and posture.
  • The autonomic part of the peripheral nervous system involuntarily increases heart rate and respiration rate through the sympathetic division to meet the elevated oxygen demand of sprinting.
  • The peripheral nervous system controls involuntary blood vessel dilation in working muscles to increase blood flow and oxygen delivery while restricting blood flow to non-essential organs.
  • Sensory receptors in the skin detect increased body temperature from the intense exercise, triggering the involuntary response of sweating to help regulate body temperature.
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Sample Answer

  • The somatic part of the peripheral nervous system allows for voluntary control of skeletal muscles through motor neurons, enabling the sprinter to perform the starting position, explosive start, and running technique.
  • Sensory neurons constantly provide feedback about joint positions, muscle tension, and track conditions, allowing the sprinter to make conscious adjustments to stride and posture.
  • The autonomic part of the peripheral nervous system involuntarily increases heart rate and respiration rate through the sympathetic division to meet the elevated oxygen demand of sprinting.
  • The peripheral nervous system controls involuntary blood vessel dilation in working muscles to increase blood flow and oxygen delivery while restricting blood flow to non-essential organs.
  • Sensory receptors in the skin detect increased body temperature from the intense exercise, triggering the involuntary response of sweating to help regulate body temperature.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 935

Outline the role of sensory neurons in the peripheral nervous system when a tennis player returns a fast serve.   (3 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • Sensory neurons in the eyes detect the visual information about the ball’s speed, spin, and trajectory, sending this information to the central nervous system.
  • Proprioceptive sensory neurons in muscles and joints provide feedback about the player’s body position and racquet position, helping coordinate the return.
  • Sensory neurons in the skin of the hand detect pressure and vibration when the ball makes contact with the racquet, allowing for adjustments to grip strength.
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Sample Answer

  • Sensory neurons in the eyes detect the visual information about the ball’s speed, spin, and trajectory, sending this information to the central nervous system.
  • Proprioceptive sensory neurons in muscles and joints provide feedback about the player’s body position and racquet position, helping coordinate the return.
  • Sensory neurons in the skin of the hand detect pressure and vibration when the ball makes contact with the racquet, allowing for adjustments to grip strength.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 934 MC

A soccer goalkeeper prepares to save a penalty kick. Which component of the peripheral nervous system is primarily responsible for the increased heart rate and heightened alertness they experience in this moment?

  1. Sympathetic nervous system
  2. Somatic sensory neurons
  3. Autonomic motor neurons
  4. Parasympathetic nervous system
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Consider Option A: 

  • The sympathetic nervous system, a division of the autonomic part of the peripheral nervous system, activates the “fight or flight” response, increasing heart rate and alertness in high-pressure situations like preparing for a penalty save.

Other Options:

  • B is incorrect: Somatic sensory neurons detect external stimuli but don’t control internal physiological responses like heart rate.
  • C is incorrect: Autonomic motor neurons is too general, as this includes both sympathetic (activating) and parasympathetic (calming) divisions.
  • D is incorrect: The parasympathetic nervous system typically slows heart rate and promotes relaxation, the opposite of what’s needed in this situation.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 933

Evaluate the interrelationship between the peripheral nervous system and other body systems in enabling efficient movement during an endurance cycling event.   (8 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • The peripheral nervous system connects to the muscular system by sending messages via motor neurons to skeletal muscles, allowing the cyclist to pedal continuously, while sensory neurons provide feedback about muscle position and tension.
  • For the cardiovascular system, the PNS helps control heart rate and blood vessel dilation through involuntary control, ensuring oxygen-rich blood reaches the working muscles during the cycling event.
  • The PNS works with the respiratory system by adjusting breathing rate to match the increased oxygen demands, helping maintain efficient respiration throughout the endurance event.
  • The connection to the endocrine system occurs when the PNS triggers the release of hormones like adrenaline, which helps mobilise energy stores needed for sustained cycling.
  • With the skin, sensory neurons detect temperature changes during cycling and the nervous system responds by sending messages to the blood vessels to dilate and increase sweat production, helping to disperse heat and cool the cyclist down during prolonged exercise.
  • The PNS reduces activity in the digestive system during intense cycling efforts, redirecting blood flow from digestive organs to the working muscles.
  • The interaction with the skeletal system happens through sensory feedback about joint positions, helping maintain proper cycling form and preventing injury.
  • This integration between systems allows the cyclist to maintain efficient movement for extended periods while the body adapts to the physical demands of endurance cycling.
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Sample Answer

  • The peripheral nervous system connects to the muscular system by sending messages via motor neurons to skeletal muscles, allowing the cyclist to pedal continuously, while sensory neurons provide feedback about muscle position and tension.
  • For the cardiovascular system, the PNS helps control heart rate and blood vessel dilation through involuntary control, ensuring oxygen-rich blood reaches the working muscles during the cycling event.
  • The PNS works with the respiratory system by adjusting breathing rate to match the increased oxygen demands, helping maintain efficient respiration throughout the endurance event.
  • The connection to the endocrine system occurs when the PNS triggers the release of hormones like adrenaline, which helps mobilise energy stores needed for sustained cycling.
  • With the skin, sensory neurons detect temperature changes during cycling and the nervous system responds by sending messages to the blood vessels to dilate and increase sweat production, helping to disperse heat and cool the cyclist down during prolonged exercise.
  • The PNS reduces activity in the digestive system during intense cycling efforts, redirecting blood flow from digestive organs to the working muscles.
  • The interaction with the skeletal system happens through sensory feedback about joint positions, helping maintain proper cycling form and preventing injury.
  • This integration between systems allows the cyclist to maintain efficient movement for extended periods while the body adapts to the physical demands of endurance cycling.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 932

Analyse how the peripheral nervous system facilitates both voluntary and involuntary aspects of a 100-metre sprint performance.   (6 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • The somatic (voluntary) division of the peripheral nervous system activates skeletal muscles through motor neurons, allowing the sprinter to execute the explosive start and coordinated running technique.
  • Sensory neurons constantly relay proprioceptive feedback about body position and muscle tension, enabling real-time adjustments to stride length and arm movements.
  • The autonomic (involuntary) division prepares the body pre-race through sympathetic activation, increasing heart rate and bronchodilation to enhance oxygen delivery.
  • During the sprint, parasympathetic withdrawal and sympathetic dominance facilitate increased cardiac output and blood flow to working muscles.
  • Sensory receptors in the skin detect environmental conditions such as track texture and temperature, allowing appropriate adaptations to maximise traction.
  • Following the race, parasympathetic activation gradually returns bodily functions to resting state, slowing heart rate and redirecting blood flow to aid recovery.
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Sample Answer

  • The somatic (voluntary) division of the peripheral nervous system activates skeletal muscles through motor neurons, allowing the sprinter to execute the explosive start and coordinated running technique.
  • Sensory neurons constantly relay proprioceptive feedback about body position and muscle tension, enabling real-time adjustments to stride length and arm movements.
  • The autonomic (involuntary) division prepares the body pre-race through sympathetic activation, increasing heart rate and bronchodilation to enhance oxygen delivery.
  • During the sprint, parasympathetic withdrawal and sympathetic dominance facilitate increased cardiac output and blood flow to working muscles.
  • Sensory receptors in the skin detect environmental conditions such as track texture and temperature, allowing appropriate adaptations to maximise traction.
  • Following the race, parasympathetic activation gradually returns bodily functions to resting state, slowing heart rate and redirecting blood flow to aid recovery.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 931

Compare and contrast the roles of sensory and motor neurons in the peripheral nervous system during a cricket bowling action.   (5 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • Sensory neurons detect stimuli such as the grip feel of the ball, body position, and visual cues, transmitting this information from receptors to the central nervous system.
  • Motor neurons transmit signals in the opposite direction, from the central nervous system to the muscles required for the bowling action.
  • Sensory neurons have their cell bodies located in dorsal root ganglia near the spinal cord, while motor neuron cell bodies are located within the central nervous system.
  • Both neuron types work together in a continuous feedback loop: sensory neurons provide information about the execution of the movement, allowing the CNS to adjust commands sent via motor neurons.
  • Sensory neurons enable proprioception, allowing the bowler to know limb positions without visual confirmation, while motor neurons enable the precise sequential muscle contractions needed for an effective bowling technique.
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Sample Answer

  • Sensory neurons detect stimuli such as the grip feel of the ball, body position, and visual cues, transmitting this information from receptors to the central nervous system.
  • Motor neurons transmit signals in the opposite direction, from the central nervous system to the muscles required for the bowling action.
  • Sensory neurons have their cell bodies located in dorsal root ganglia near the spinal cord, while motor neuron cell bodies are located within the central nervous system.
  • Both neuron types work together in a continuous feedback loop: sensory neurons provide information about the execution of the movement, allowing the CNS to adjust commands sent via motor neurons.
  • Sensory neurons enable proprioception, allowing the bowler to know limb positions without visual confirmation, while motor neurons enable the precise sequential muscle contractions needed for an effective bowling technique.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 930

Explain the role of the peripheral nervous system in a basketball player performing a jump shot.   (4 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • Sensory neurons in the peripheral nervous system detect visual information about basket position and distance, as well as proprioceptive information about body position.
  • This information travels through afferent nerves to the central nervous system for processing and decision-making.
  • Motor neurons then carry signals from the CNS through efferent nerves to the specific muscle groups needed for the jump shot.
  • The peripheral nervous system also regulates involuntary functions like increased heart rate and respiration to support the energy demands of the movement.
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Sample Answer

  • Sensory neurons in the peripheral nervous system detect visual information about basket position and distance, as well as proprioceptive information about body position.
  • This information travels through afferent nerves to the central nervous system for processing and decision-making.
  • Motor neurons then carry signals from the CNS through efferent nerves to the specific muscle groups needed for the jump shot.
  • The peripheral nervous system also regulates involuntary functions like increased heart rate and respiration to support the energy demands of the movement.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 929

Describe the structure and function of motor neurons in the peripheral nervous system.   (3 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • Motor neurons have a cell body located in the central nervous system (brain or spinal cord), with an axon extending out to the target effector (muscle or gland).
  • The axon is covered with a myelin sheath which increases the speed of impulse transmission and ensures efficient signal delivery.
  • Motor neurons transmit electrical signals from the central nervous system to effectors, causing muscles to contract or glands to secrete, thereby enabling movement responses.
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Sample Answer

  • Motor neurons have a cell body located in the central nervous system (brain or spinal cord), with an axon extending out to the target effector (muscle or gland).
  • The axon is covered with a myelin sheath which increases the speed of impulse transmission and ensures efficient signal delivery.
  • Motor neurons transmit electrical signals from the central nervous system to effectors, causing muscles to contract or glands to secrete, thereby enabling movement responses.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 928 MC

A swimmer completes several fast laps in a pool. During this activity, the peripheral nervous system is involved in:

  1. Only voluntary muscle contractions for swimming movements
  2. Only involuntary functions like heart rate regulation
  3. Both voluntary swimming movements and involuntary physiological adjustments
  4. Neither swimming movements nor physiological adjustments
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Consider Option C: 

  • The peripheral nervous system controls both voluntary skeletal muscle movements (swimming strokes) and involuntary functions like heart rate and respiration adjustments needed during exercise.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: The PNS is involved in both voluntary and involuntary functions.
  • B is incorrect: The PNS controls voluntary movements as well as involuntary functions.
  • D is incorrect: The PNS is directly involved in both aspects of the swimming activity.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 928 MC

Which of the following describes a function of motor neurons in the peripheral nervous system?

  1. Detecting environmental stimuli
  2. Transmitting commands from the central nervous system to muscles
  3. Processing sensory information
  4. Carrying signals from muscles to the central nervous system
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Consider Option B: 

  • Motor neurons in the peripheral nervous system receive messages from the central nervous system and connect with effectors (muscles) to carry out the response.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Detecting environmental stimuli is the function of sensory receptors and sensory neurons.
  • C is incorrect: Processing sensory information is primarily done by interneurons in the central nervous system.
  • D is incorrect: Carrying signals from muscles to the CNS is the function of sensory neurons, not motor neurons.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 927 MC

During an archery competition, an athlete's hand accidentally touches a sharp edge. The immediate withdrawal of their hand is primarily controlled by:

  1. Motor neurons in the brain
  2. Sensory neurons in the skin
  3. Voluntary muscle contractions
  4. A spinal reflex pathway
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Consider Option D: 

  • The immediate withdrawal response from a painful stimulus is a reflex action controlled by the spinal cord without requiring brain processing, utilising peripheral nervous system pathways.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Motor neurons in the brain would be involved in voluntary movements, not the immediate reflex.
  • B is incorrect: Sensory neurons detect the stimulus but don’t control the withdrawal response.
  • C is incorrect: The withdrawal is involuntary, not a voluntary muscle contraction.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 925

Critically analyse how the central nervous system adapts to improve performance during the various stages of learning a complex skill such as an Olympic weightlifting movement.   (8 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • In the cognitive stage, the prefrontal cortex is highly active as the lifter consciously processes instructions and feedback, while the motor cortex creates initial neural pathways for the movement pattern, resulting in inconsistent performance.
  • The brain forms new neural connections through neuroplasticity, with repeated practice strengthening synaptic pathways between neurons involved in the weightlifting movement, gradually reducing the cognitive load required.
  • The cerebellum becomes increasingly critical during the associative stage, refining movement timing and coordination by comparing expected outcomes with actual performance, leading to fewer major technique errors.
  • The basal ganglia facilitate the transition toward automatic execution by developing motor programs that require less conscious control, allowing the lifter to focus on performance variables rather than basic movement patterns.
  • Myelination of relevant neural pathways increases with training, enhancing transmission speed and efficiency of signals to muscles, contributing to improved power output and technique consistency.
  • The brain develops specialised neural networks for anticipatory adjustments, enabling proactive rather than reactive balance control when handling heavy loads, particularly evident in the autonomous stage.
  • Brain regions responsible for arousal regulation adapt to competition environments, optimising stress hormone release for peak performance rather than technique disruption.
  • Proprioceptive processing in the somatosensory cortex becomes more refined with experience, allowing the lifter to detect subtle body position changes that would otherwise compromise lifting mechanics, resulting in enhanced kinesthetic awareness across all learning stages.
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Sample Answer

  • In the cognitive stage, the prefrontal cortex is highly active as the lifter consciously processes instructions and feedback, while the motor cortex creates initial neural pathways for the movement pattern, resulting in inconsistent performance.
  • The brain forms new neural connections through neuroplasticity, with repeated practice strengthening synaptic pathways between neurons involved in the weightlifting movement, gradually reducing the cognitive load required.
  • The cerebellum becomes increasingly critical during the associative stage, refining movement timing and coordination by comparing expected outcomes with actual performance, leading to fewer major technique errors.
  • The basal ganglia facilitate the transition toward automatic execution by developing motor programs that require less conscious control, allowing the lifter to focus on performance variables rather than basic movement patterns.
  • Myelination of relevant neural pathways increases with training, enhancing transmission speed and efficiency of signals to muscles, contributing to improved power output and technique consistency.
  • The brain develops specialised neural networks for anticipatory adjustments, enabling proactive rather than reactive balance control when handling heavy loads, particularly evident in the autonomous stage.
  • Brain regions responsible for arousal regulation adapt to competition environments, optimising stress hormone release for peak performance rather than technique disruption.
  • Proprioceptive processing in the somatosensory cortex becomes more refined with experience, allowing the lifter to detect subtle body position changes that would otherwise compromise lifting mechanics, resulting in enhanced kinesthetic awareness across all learning stages.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 924

Explain how different regions of the brain cooperate during the learning and execution of a new gymnastics routine on a balance beam.   (6 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • The frontal lobe engages in planning and decision-making during the initial learning phase, helping to break down the routine into manageable components and maintaining focus on technique.
  • The motor cortex generates the specific neural commands for each movement and sequence, with dedicated regions controlling different body parts needed for the routine.
  • The parietal lobe processes proprioceptive information about body position in space, crucial for maintaining balance on the narrow beam surface.
  • The cerebellum coordinates timing and precision of movements, comparing intended actions with actual performance to make micro-adjustments during execution.
  • The temporal lobe processes auditory cues (like music or coaching instructions) and contributes to memory formation of the routine sequence.
  • The basal ganglia facilitate the transition from conscious execution of each movement to the more automatic, fluid performance that comes with practice, allowing attention resources to be allocated more efficiently.
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Sample Answer

  • The frontal lobe engages in planning and decision-making during the initial learning phase, helping to break down the routine into manageable components and maintaining focus on technique.
  • The motor cortex generates the specific neural commands for each movement and sequence, with dedicated regions controlling different body parts needed for the routine.
  • The parietal lobe processes proprioceptive information about body position in space, crucial for maintaining balance on the narrow beam surface.
  • The cerebellum coordinates timing and precision of movements, comparing intended actions with actual performance to make micro-adjustments during execution.
  • The temporal lobe processes auditory cues (like music or coaching instructions) and contributes to memory formation of the routine sequence.
  • The basal ganglia facilitate the transition from conscious execution of each movement to the more automatic, fluid performance that comes with practice, allowing attention resources to be allocated more efficiently.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 923

Describe how the central nervous system processes and responds to a stimulus when a volleyball player must quickly adjust to receive a ball that has been deflected off the net.   (4 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • The occipital lobe processes the visual information of the ball’s changed trajectory after hitting the net, while the parietal lobe processes the spatial relationship between the player and the ball.
  • The cerebellum rapidly calculates the necessary adjustments to body position and limb movements needed to intercept the deflected ball.
  • The motor cortex in the frontal lobe sends specific commands via the spinal cord to the appropriate muscle groups to execute the adjusted movement pattern.
  • The brain continuously receives feedback via sensory pathways about body position and movement, allowing for real-time refinements during the reception attempt.
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Sample Answer

  • The occipital lobe processes the visual information of the ball’s changed trajectory after hitting the net, while the parietal lobe processes the spatial relationship between the player and the ball.
  • The cerebellum rapidly calculates the necessary adjustments to body position and limb movements needed to intercept the deflected ball.
  • The motor cortex in the frontal lobe sends specific commands via the spinal cord to the appropriate muscle groups to execute the adjusted movement pattern.
  • The brain continuously receives feedback via sensory pathways about body position and movement, allowing for real-time refinements during the reception attempt.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 922 MC

During a hockey match, a player must simultaneously track the ball, maintain awareness of other players, and control their stick technique.

Which area of the brain is primarily responsible for integrating these multiple sensory inputs?

  1. Frontal lobe
  2. Occipital lobe
  3. Association areas
  4. Brain stem
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Consider Option C: 

  • Association areas integrate information from multiple sensory inputs and past experiences, allowing the player to process visual, spatial, and proprioceptive information simultaneously.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: The frontal lobe is primarily involved in planning, decision-making, and voluntary movement, not sensory integration.
  • B is incorrect: The occipital lobe processes visual information but doesn’t integrate multiple sensory inputs.
  • D is incorrect: The brain stem controls basic life functions like breathing and heart rate, not complex sensory integration.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 921

Evaluate the importance of the central nervous system in both voluntary and involuntary aspects of movement during a marathon race.   (8 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • The frontal lobe consciously controls voluntary movements including stride length, arm swing, and pacing strategy, allowing the runner to make deliberate technique adjustments.
  • The motor cortex sends specific signals via the spinal cord to the appropriate muscles to execute the running motion, with different areas controlling different muscle groups.
  • The cerebellum coordinates balance and movement precision, enabling the runner to maintain stability on varied terrain while ensuring efficient running economy.
  • The brain stem regulates crucial involuntary functions such as heart rate and respiration rate, which automatically increase to meet the elevated oxygen demands during the marathon.
  • The hypothalamus controls thermoregulation, triggering sweating and vasodilation to prevent overheating during prolonged exertion.
  • The spinal cord facilitates reflex actions that allow quick adaptations to obstacles or surface changes without conscious processing, improving safety and efficiency.
  • Sensory processing areas interpret feedback from muscles, joints and skin, allowing ongoing adjustments to running form and preventing injury.
  • The integration of all these systems enables the sustained, complex activity of marathon running, with both conscious strategic decisions and automatic physiological responses working together to optimise performance.
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Sample Answer

  • The frontal lobe consciously controls voluntary movements including stride length, arm swing, and pacing strategy, allowing the runner to make deliberate technique adjustments.
  • The motor cortex sends specific signals via the spinal cord to the appropriate muscles to execute the running motion, with different areas controlling different muscle groups.
  • The cerebellum coordinates balance and movement precision, enabling the runner to maintain stability on varied terrain while ensuring efficient running economy.
  • The brain stem regulates crucial involuntary functions such as heart rate and respiration rate, which automatically increase to meet the elevated oxygen demands during the marathon.
  • The hypothalamus controls thermoregulation, triggering sweating and vasodilation to prevent overheating during prolonged exertion.
  • The spinal cord facilitates reflex actions that allow quick adaptations to obstacles or surface changes without conscious processing, improving safety and efficiency.
  • Sensory processing areas interpret feedback from muscles, joints and skin, allowing ongoing adjustments to running form and preventing injury.
  • The integration of all these systems enables the sustained, complex activity of marathon running, with both conscious strategic decisions and automatic physiological responses working together to optimise performance.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 920

Analyse how damage to different regions of the brain would affect an athlete's movement capabilities.   (6 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • Damage to the cerebellum would severely impact coordination and balance, causing unsteady movements and difficulty in performing precision tasks like shooting a basketball.
  • Damage to the motor cortex in the frontal lobe would limit voluntary control of specific muscle groups, potentially causing weakness or paralysis in the corresponding body parts.
  • Damage to the parietal lobe could result in difficulty with spatial awareness and body positioning, making it challenging to navigate sports fields or courts effectively.
  • Damage to the occipital lobe would impair visual processing, affecting depth perception and tracking of moving objects like balls or opponents.
  • Damage to the brain stem could impact automatic functions like breathing regulation during exercise, severely limiting stamina and performance capacity.
  • Damage to areas involved in memory, such as the hippocampus, would affect the athlete’s ability to learn and recall complex movement sequences or game strategies.
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Sample Answer

  • Damage to the cerebellum would severely impact coordination and balance, causing unsteady movements and difficulty in performing precision tasks like shooting a basketball.
  • Damage to the motor cortex in the frontal lobe would limit voluntary control of specific muscle groups, potentially causing weakness or paralysis in the corresponding body parts.
  • Damage to the parietal lobe could result in difficulty with spatial awareness and body positioning, making it challenging to navigate sports fields or courts effectively.
  • Damage to the occipital lobe would impair visual processing, affecting depth perception and tracking of moving objects like balls or opponents.
  • Damage to the brain stem could impact automatic functions like breathing regulation during exercise, severely limiting stamina and performance capacity.
  • Damage to areas involved in memory, such as the hippocampus, would affect the athlete’s ability to learn and recall complex movement sequences or game strategies.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 919

Explain how different areas of the brain interrelate to coordinate a complex gymnastic routine performed on a balance beam.   (5 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • The cerebellum coordinates balance, posture, and precise timing of movements, constantly adjusting body position based on sensory feedback during the routine.
  • The motor cortex in the frontal lobe controls voluntary movements by sending signals to specific muscle groups to execute planned movements.
  • The parietal lobe processes touch perception and spatial awareness, allowing the gymnast to sense their body position relative to the beam.
  • The temporal lobe processes auditory information such as music cues that might accompany the routine and contributes to memory of the sequence.
  • The occipital lobe processes visual information about the beam and surroundings, providing critical feedback to maintain orientation in space during complex movements.
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Sample Answer

  • The cerebellum coordinates balance, posture, and precise timing of movements, constantly adjusting body position based on sensory feedback during the routine.
  • The motor cortex in the frontal lobe controls voluntary movements by sending signals to specific muscle groups to execute planned movements.
  • The parietal lobe processes touch perception and spatial awareness, allowing the gymnast to sense their body position relative to the beam.
  • The temporal lobe processes auditory information such as music cues that might accompany the routine and contributes to memory of the sequence.
  • The occipital lobe processes visual information about the beam and surroundings, providing critical feedback to maintain orientation in space during complex movements.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 918

Describe the structure and function of the spinal cord and its role in facilitating rapid movement responses.   (4 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • The spinal cord is a compact structure containing neurons that extends from the base of the skull to the first lumbar vertebra and is protected by the vertebral column.
  • It contains 31 pairs of spinal nerves that branch out to connect the central nervous system with the peripheral nervous system.
  • The spinal cord controls reflex activities which allow for immediate responses without brain involvement, critical for movements requiring speed such as withdrawing from a hot surface.
  • It also serves as a communication pathway, transmitting information between peripheral nerves and the brain via ascending (sensory) and descending (motor) tracts.
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Sample Answer

  • The spinal cord is a compact structure containing neurons that extends from the base of the skull to the first lumbar vertebra and is protected by the vertebral column.
  • It contains 31 pairs of spinal nerves that branch out to connect the central nervous system with the peripheral nervous system.
  • The spinal cord controls reflex activities which allow for immediate responses without brain involvement, critical for movements requiring speed such as withdrawing from a hot surface.
  • It also serves as a communication pathway, transmitting information between peripheral nerves and the brain via ascending (sensory) and descending (motor) tracts.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 917

Outline how the central nervous system responds when a soccer player must quickly adjust their kick direction after seeing a defender move into their path.   (3 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • The visual cortex in the occipital lobe processes the visual information of the defender moving, sending signals to other brain regions.
  • The frontal lobe makes the decision to adjust the kick direction and plans the new movement pattern.
  • The motor cortex sends signals via the spinal cord to the leg muscles to execute the adjusted kicking movement.
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Sample Answer

  • The visual cortex in the occipital lobe processes the visual information of the defender moving, sending signals to other brain regions.
  • The frontal lobe makes the decision to adjust the kick direction and plans the new movement pattern.
  • The motor cortex sends signals via the spinal cord to the leg muscles to execute the adjusted kicking movement.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 916 MC

When a tennis player returns a fast serve, several parts of the brain work together. Which function would the parietal lobe of the brain contribute to this action?

  1. Visual perception of the ball's approach
  2. Planning the sequence of movements
  3. Coordination of the muscles used
  4. Touch perception and movement control
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Show Worked Solution

Consider Option D: 

  • The parietal lobe is responsible for touch perception, movement control, and manipulation of objects, which would be critical for a tennis player returning a serve.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Visual perception is primarily the function of the occipital lobe.
  • B is incorrect: Planning movement sequences is primarily a function of the frontal lobe.
  • C is incorrect: Coordination of muscles is primarily a function of the cerebellum.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 915 MC

The spinal cord contributes to rapid movement responses through:

  1. Storing long-term movement memories
  2. Processing complex motor patterns
  3. Reflex actions that bypass the brain
  4. Slowing neural transmission for precision
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Show Worked Solution

Consider Option C: 

  • The spinal cord controls many reflex activities where messages are quickly transmitted to the spinal cord rather than the brain for a faster response time.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Long-term movement memories are stored in the brain, not the spinal cord.
  • B is incorrect: Complex motor patterns are processed primarily in the brain, not the spinal cord.
  • D is incorrect: The spinal cord actually speeds up neural transmission for certain movements, not slows it down.

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 914 MC

A netball player quickly jumps to catch a high pass during a game. Which part of the central nervous system would be primarily responsible for maintaining her balance during this movement?

  1. Cerebral lobe
  2. Cerebellum
  3. Medulla oblongata
  4. Frontal lobe
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Consider Option B: 

  • The cerebellum is responsible for coordination, balance, and reflex motor acts, making it primarily responsible for maintaining balance during movements like jumping to catch a ball.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Cerebral lobe is not a specific part of the brain but a general term for the cerebral hemispheres.
  • C is incorrect: Medulla oblongata controls involuntary functions like breathing and heart rate, not balance.
  • D is incorrect: Frontal lobe is involved in planning, reasoning, and voluntary movement, but not specifically balance.

HMS, BM 2022 HSC 6 MC

A person started to feel numb on one side of their body. They had blurred vision and difficulty speaking.

Which disease was this person likely to be experiencing?

  1. Coronary heart disease
  2. Cerebrovascular disease
  3. Congenital heart disease
  4. Peripheral vascular disease
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Consider Option B:  Cerebrovascular disease

  • One-sided numbness, blurred vision, difficulty speaking, are classic signs of a stroke, which occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, affecting both the nervous and circulatory systems.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Coronary heart disease primarily affects the heart muscle with chest pain symptoms
  • C is incorrect: Congenital heart disease is present from birth
  • D is incorrect: Peripheral vascular disease mainly affects blood vessels in the limbs

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 102

Evaluate how neurological adaptations contribute to improved performance in a racquet sport of your choice.   (8 marks)

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Sample Answer

Skill acquisition phase:

  • Development of specific neural pathways
  • Enhancement of sensory processing
  • Improved motor unit coordination
  • Better integration of visual and motor systems

Movement refinement:

  • More efficient muscle activation patterns
  • Enhanced anticipatory ability
  • Better error correction
  • Reduced energy expenditure

Performance impact:

  • Improved shot accuracy
  • Faster reaction times
  • Better movement economy
  • Enhanced decision making

Limitations:

  • Need for ongoing practice
  • Impact of competition pressure
  • Environmental influences
  • Recovery requirements
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Sample Answer

Skill acquisition phase:

  • Development of specific neural pathways
  • Enhancement of sensory processing
  • Improved motor unit coordination
  • Better integration of visual and motor systems

Movement refinement:

  • More efficient muscle activation patterns
  • Enhanced anticipatory ability
  • Better error correction
  • Reduced energy expenditure

Performance impact:

  • Improved shot accuracy
  • Faster reaction times
  • Better movement economy
  • Enhanced decision making

Limitations:

  • Need for ongoing practice
  • Impact of competition pressure
  • Environmental influences
  • Recovery requirements

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 101

Compare how the nervous system controls movement in power activities versus endurance activities.   (6 marks)

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Sample Answer

Power activities:

  • Rapid recruitment of large motor units
  • Maximal force production
  • Short duration neural activation
  • High threshold motor unit engagement

Endurance activities:

  • Sequential recruitment of smaller motor units
  • Sustained submaximal activation
  • Rotation of motor unit recruitment
  • Fatigue resistance emphasis

Movement outcomes:

  • Different patterns of muscle activation
  • Varying energy system demands
  • Distinct feedback requirements
  • Specific adaptation patterns
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Sample Answer

Power activities:

  • Rapid recruitment of large motor units
  • Maximal force production
  • Short duration neural activation
  • High threshold motor unit engagement

Endurance activities:

  • Sequential recruitment of smaller motor units
  • Sustained submaximal activation
  • Rotation of motor unit recruitment
  • Fatigue resistance emphasis

Movement outcomes:

  • Different patterns of muscle activation
  • Varying energy system demands
  • Distinct feedback requirements
  • Specific adaptation patterns

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 100

Analyse how the nervous system's control of movement differs between novice and elite table tennis players.   (6 marks)

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Sample Answer

Novice players:

  • Greater conscious control required
  • Slower processing of visual information
  • Less efficient motor unit recruitment
  • Limited anticipation ability

Elite players:

  • Automated movement patterns
  • Rapid processing of opponent movements
  • Efficient muscle activation sequences
  • Enhanced anticipatory responses

Neural adaptations:

  • Strengthened movement pathways through practice
  • More effective use of feedback
  • Better coordination between visual input and motor output
  • Improved timing of responses
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Sample Answer

Novice players:

  • Greater conscious control required
  • Slower processing of visual information
  • Less efficient motor unit recruitment
  • Limited anticipation ability

Elite players:

  • Automated movement patterns
  • Rapid processing of opponent movements
  • Efficient muscle activation sequences
  • Enhanced anticipatory responses

Neural adaptations:

  • Strengthened movement pathways through practice
  • More effective use of feedback
  • Better coordination between visual input and motor output
  • Improved timing of responses

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 99

Describe how the nervous system controls movement differently when a basketball player changes from dribbling the ball to shooting.   (4 marks)

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Sample Answer

Dribbling control:

  • Repetitive movement pattern using established neural pathways
  • Regular feedback from proprioceptors for ball control
  • Automated movement requiring minimal conscious input

Shooting control:

  • More precise control of force and direction required
  • Integration of visual and proprioceptive feedback
  • Greater conscious control of movement
  • Fine adjustment of muscle activation patterns
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Sample Answer

Dribbling control:

  • Repetitive movement pattern using established neural pathways
  • Regular feedback from proprioceptors for ball control
  • Automated movement requiring minimal conscious input

Shooting control:

  • More precise control of force and direction required
  • Integration of visual and proprioceptive feedback
  • Greater conscious control of movement
  • Fine adjustment of muscle activation patterns

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 98

Outline how the nervous system coordinates a footballer's response when attempting to catch a high ball in wet conditions.   (3 marks)

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Sample Answer

The response involves:

  • Specialised receptors detecting both the ball and rainy conditions
  • Sensory pathways transmitting environmental information to CNS
  • Integration of balance and positional information in cerebellum
  • Motor neurons activating appropriate muscle groups for the catch with additional force needed for wet conditions
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Sample Answer

The response involves:

  • Specialised receptors detecting both the ball and rainy conditions
  • Sensory pathways transmitting environmental information to CNS
  • Integration of balance and positional information in cerebellum
  • Motor neurons activating appropriate muscle groups for the catch with additional force needed for wet conditions

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 97

Evaluate how fatigue affects the nervous system's ability to maintain skilled performance in endurance events.   (8 marks)

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Sample Answer

Central fatigue effects:

  • Reduced neural drive to muscles
  • Decreased motor unit recruitment
  • Impaired neurotransmitter function
  • Reduced movement precision and coordination

Peripheral fatigue effects:

  • Altered neuromuscular junction function
  • Slower nerve conduction velocity
  • Reduced sensitivity of muscle receptors
  • Delayed reflex responses

Impact on performance:

  • Deterioration in technique and skill execution
  • Increased reaction times
  • Reduced movement accuracy
  • Impaired balance and coordination

Compensatory mechanisms:

  • Increased conscious attention to movement
  • Modified movement patterns to maintain performance
  • Enhanced reliance on visual feedback
  • Adjusted pacing strategies
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Sample Answer

Central fatigue effects:

  • Reduced neural drive to muscles
  • Decreased motor unit recruitment
  • Impaired neurotransmitter function
  • Reduced movement precision and coordination

Peripheral fatigue effects:

  • Altered neuromuscular junction function
  • Slower nerve conduction velocity
  • Reduced sensitivity of muscle receptors
  • Delayed reflex responses

Impact on performance:

  • Deterioration in technique and skill execution
  • Increased reaction times
  • Reduced movement accuracy
  • Impaired balance and coordination

Compensatory mechanisms:

  • Increased conscious attention to movement
  • Modified movement patterns to maintain performance
  • Enhanced reliance on visual feedback
  • Adjusted pacing strategies

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 96

Analyse the nervous system's role in producing both fine and gross motor movements during a gymnastics floor routine.   (6 marks)

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Sample Answer

Fine motor movements:

  • Require precise control of small muscle groups
  • Involve high numbers of motor neurons per muscle fibre
  • Utilise specific areas of the motor cortex for detailed movement control
  • Need constant sensory feedback for accuracy

Gross motor movements:

  • Involve large muscle groups working together
  • Require coordination between multiple neural pathways
  • Use fewer motor neurons per muscle fibre
  • Rely on balance centres in the cerebellum

The nervous system must:

  • Integrate both types of movement seamlessly
  • Coordinate timing through the cerebellum
  • Maintain postural control while executing movements
  • Process continuous feedback to adjust movements
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Sample Answer

Fine motor movements:

  • Require precise control of small muscle groups
  • Involve high numbers of motor neurons per muscle fibre
  • Utilise specific areas of the motor cortex for detailed movement control
  • Need constant sensory feedback for accuracy

Gross motor movements:

  • Involve large muscle groups working together
  • Require coordination between multiple neural pathways
  • Use fewer motor neurons per muscle fibre
  • Rely on balance centres in the cerebellum

The nervous system must:

  • Integrate both types of movement seamlessly
  • Coordinate timing through the cerebellum
  • Maintain postural control while executing movements
  • Process continuous feedback to adjust movements

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 95

Explain how the nervous system facilitates skill development in a learner progressing from the cognitive to autonomous stage of learning.   (5 marks)

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Sample Answer

During initial skill learning (cognitive stage):

  • Extensive conscious processing occurs in the cerebral cortex
  • Multiple areas of the brain are actively involved in movement planning
  • Movements are often jerky and uncoordinated due to inefficient neural pathways

As learning progresses toward autonomy:

  • Neural pathways become strengthened through myelination
  • Movement patterns become stored in motor memory
  • Less conscious attention is required as movements become automated
  • More efficient recruitment of motor units occurs
  • Smoother, more coordinated movements result from improved neural efficiency
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Sample Answer

During initial skill learning (cognitive stage):

  • Extensive conscious processing occurs in the cerebral cortex
  • Multiple areas of the brain are actively involved in movement planning
  • Movements are often jerky and uncoordinated due to inefficient neural pathways

As learning progresses toward autonomy:

  • Neural pathways become strengthened through myelination
  • Movement patterns become stored in motor memory
  • Less conscious attention is required as movements become automated
  • More efficient recruitment of motor units occurs
  • Smoother, more coordinated movements result from improved neural efficiency

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 94

Compare the role of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems in relation to sporting performance.  (4 marks)

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Sample Answer

The sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for intense physical activity through the “fight or flight” response by:

  • Increasing heart rate and blood flow to muscles
  • Dilating airways to improve oxygen intake
  • Increasing glucose availability for energy

In contrast, the parasympathetic nervous system promotes recovery and energy conservation by:

  • Decreasing heart rate and blood pressure
  • Increasing digestion and energy storage
  • Reducing muscle tension
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Sample Answer

The sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for intense physical activity through the “fight or flight” response by:

  • Increasing heart rate and blood flow to muscles
  • Dilating airways to improve oxygen intake
  • Increasing glucose availability for energy

In contrast, the parasympathetic nervous system promotes recovery and energy conservation by:

  • Decreasing heart rate and blood pressure
  • Increasing digestion and energy storage
  • Reducing muscle tension

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 93

Outline how the nervous system coordinates an immediate response to maintain balance when a rugby player is tackled.  (3 marks)

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Sample Answer

  • Proprioceptors in muscles and joints detect change in body position
  • Information is rapidly transmitted to the cerebellum via sensory neurons
  • Motor neurons activate appropriate muscles to maintain balance through postural adjustments
  • This occurs through both reflex and conscious control mechanisms
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Sample Answer

  • Proprioceptors in muscles and joints detect change in body position
  • Information is rapidly transmitted to the cerebellum via sensory neurons
  • Motor neurons activate appropriate muscles to maintain balance through postural adjustments
  • This occurs through both reflex and conscious control mechanisms

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 92 MC

Which best describes how motor units are recruited during a bicep curl exercise?

  1. Large motor units are recruited before small motor units
  2. All motor units are recruited simultaneously
  3. Motor units are recruited randomly
  4. Small motor units are recruited before large motor units
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Consider Option D: Small motor units are recruited before large motor units

According to the size principle, smaller motor units are recruited first, with larger units recruited as force requirements increase.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Opposite to size principle
  • B is incorrect: Would be inefficient use of energy
  • C is incorrect: Would not allow for smooth force production

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 91 MC

The diagram shows a neuron.

Which structure allows for rapid transmission of nerve impulses?

  1. Cell body
  2. Dendrites
  3. Myelin sheath
  4. Node of Ranvier
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Consider Option C:  Myelin sheath

The myelin sheath insulates the axon and allows for saltatory conduction, enabling rapid transmission of nerve impulses.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Processes information but doesn’t speed transmission
  • B is incorrect: Receive signals but don’t speed transmission
  • D is incorrect: Gaps in myelin, don’t provide insulation

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 90 MC

A netball player lands awkwardly and twists their ankle. Which immediate response helps protect from further injury?

  1. Withdrawal reflex action
  2. Conscious decision to stop moving
  3. Balanced muscle contraction
  4. Reciprocal inhibition
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Consider Option A:  Withdrawal reflex action

The withdrawal reflex is an immediate protective response that occurs before conscious thought, helping prevent further injury.

Other Options:

  • B is incorrect: Too slow to prevent injury
  • C is incorrect: A controlled response that occurs too slowly
  • D is incorrect: A normal movement process, not protective

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 89 MC

During a tennis serve, what is the correct sequence of nervous system processes?

  1. Motor response → Processing → Sensory input
  2. Processing → Sensory input → Motor response
  3. Sensory input → Processing → Motor response
  4. Sensory input → Motor response → Processing
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Consider Option C:  Sensory input → Processing → Motor response

The correct sequence involves receiving sensory information (seeing the ball), processing in the central nervous system, then sending motor signals to muscles.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Incorrect sequence – Output cannot occur before processing
  • B is incorrect: Processing cannot occur before receiving sensory input
  • D is incorrect: Processing must occur between input and output for coordinated movement

HMS, BM EQ-Bank 88 MC

Which part of the nervous system is primarily responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement?

  1. Peripheral nervous system
  2. Somatic nervous system
  3. Autonomic nervous system
  4. Sympathetic nervous system
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Consider Option B:  Somatic nervous system

  • The somatic nervous system controls voluntary muscle movements through motor neurons that innervate skeletal muscles.

Other Options:

  • A is incorrect: Too broad, includes both somatic and autonomic systems
  • C is incorrect: Controls involuntary functions like heart rate 
  • D is incorrect: Part of autonomic system, fight/flight response only