Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Subject Area Practice Test

Which system works in conjunction with the muscular system for body movement?

1. Circulatory system

2. Nervous system

3. Respiratory system

4. Endocrine system

The correct answer is: Nervous system

The nervous system plays a crucial role in coordinating and facilitating movement in conjunction with the muscular system. It serves as the control center for all voluntary and involuntary movements by transmitting signals from the brain to the muscles. When the brain decides to move a body part, it sends electrical impulses through motor neurons, which then stimulate the muscle fibers to contract. This interaction allows for precise and coordinated movements, essential for activities ranging from simple tasks to complex athletic performances. In contrast, while the circulatory, respiratory, and endocrine systems contribute significantly to overall health and function, they do not directly coordinate movement. The circulatory system delivers nutrients and oxygen to the muscles, the respiratory system provides oxygen and expels carbon dioxide, and the endocrine system regulates hormones that can influence muscle metabolism and growth. However, none of these systems are primarily responsible for the initiation and control of movement like the nervous system is. Thus, the nervous system is the essential partner to the muscular system in executing body movements.