Which division of the autonomic nervous system calms the body, conserving its energy?

• A. Somatic nervous system
• B. Parasympathetic nervous system
• C. Central nervous system
• D. Sympathetic nervous system

Answer: (B)

The main idea is how the autonomic nervous system manages when the body should rest and conserve energy versus when it needs to act. The calming division is the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes rest-and-digest activities that conserve energy. It slows the heart rate, reduces blood pressure after stress, and stimulates digestion, guiding the body to store energy rather than expend it. This system uses acetylcholine to quiet the body's processes and support recovery and maintenance. In contrast, the sympathetic division gears the body up for action, but the scenario described—calming and conserving energy—points to the parasympathetic system.