Question

Distinguish between the sympathetic system and the parasympathetic system on the basis of heartbeat.

Answer 1

Sr. No.	Sympathetic system	Parasympathetic system
1.	It increases the heart rate during stress, fear, or exercise.	It decreases the heart rate during rest and relaxation.
2.	It increases the force of contractions in the heart, so the heartbeat becomes stronger.	It reduces the force of contractions and brings the heartbeat back to normal.
3.	It increases cardiac output (more blood pumped per minute) to meet the body’s higher demand.	It decreases cardiac output when the body does not need an extra blood supply.
4.	It speeds up the heartbeat to support the “fight-or-flight” response in emergencies.	It slows down the heartbeat to support the “rest-and-digest” state after the emergency is over.