Question

Which branch of the ANS has a larger overall number of pre- and post-ganglionic neurons, allowing for greater stimulation of effector organs, in a process known as mass activation?

Answer 1

Sympathetic branch of Autonomic Nervous System(ANS) has larger number of pre and post ganglionic neurons as Sympathetic neurons branches from spinal cord from the thoracic area i.e T1, T2, T3,T4,T5,T6,T7,T8,T9,T10,T11,T12 and lumbar area L1,L2/L3. These neurons are called as pre-ganglionic neurons. These pre-ganglionic neurons synapse with post-ganglionic neurons at various locations in sympathetic ganglion chains. From post ganglionic neurons the innervation to effector organs follows.

The parasympathetic neurons branches from the cranial area i.e CNIII, CNVII, CNIX, CNX and Sacral area i.e S2,S3 & S4.

Hence, Sympathetic branch of ANS has largest number of pre and post ganglionic neurons for greater stimulation of effector organs for mass activation.