Which system is responsible for rapid heartbeat, breathing, sweating, and muscle tension?

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for activating the body's 'fight or flight' response, which includes a rapid heartbeat, increased breathing rate, sweating, and muscle tension. This system prepares the body to respond quickly to perceived threats or stressors by redirecting blood flow to muscles, increasing heart rate to pump more oxygen, and releasing stress hormones like adrenaline. These physiological changes are essential for quick reactions in stressful situations, highlighting the role of the sympathetic nervous system in managing acute stress responses.

The other systems mentioned serve different functions; for instance, the parasympathetic nervous system primarily promotes 'rest and digest' functions, helping the body conserve energy and maintain normal function when not under stress. The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, processing information and coordinating actions, while the peripheral nervous system connects the central nervous system to the rest of the body but does not specifically control the rapid stress response features associated with the sympathetic system.