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What does the sympathetic nervous system do?

  1. Calms the body

  2. Carries sensory information

  3. Arouses the body in stressful situations

  4. Controls the body's skeletal muscles

The correct answer is: Arouses the body in stressful situations

The sympathetic nervous system plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress by preparing it for 'fight or flight' situations. When faced with a threat or challenge, the sympathetic nervous system activates various physiological responses, such as increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, and redirecting blood flow to essential muscles. This arousal enables the body to respond quickly and efficiently to perceived dangers, making it crucial for survival. Thus, the choice highlighting its role in arousing the body in stressful situations accurately captures its primary function.