What portion of the nervous system is responsible for involuntary bodily functions?

The autonomic nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating involuntary bodily functions. This includes processes such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate, which operate without conscious control. The autonomic nervous system is further divided into two main branches: the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, which work together to maintain homeostasis and respond to stress.

In contrast, the somatic nervous system primarily governs voluntary movements and the activation of skeletal muscles. It allows for conscious control over actions, such as moving your arm or walking. The central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord, is responsible for processing information and coordinating activity throughout the body, but does not directly control involuntary functions. The peripheral nervous system encompasses all the nerves outside the central nervous system, including both somatic and autonomic pathways, but it does not specifically focus on involuntary functions, which are a hallmark of the autonomic nervous system.