Which division of the peripheral nervous system controls skeletal muscles?

The division of the peripheral nervous system that controls skeletal muscles is known as the somatic nervous system. This subsystem is primarily responsible for voluntary movements, allowing for the conscious control of muscles. The somatic nervous system encompasses motor neurons that directly innervate skeletal muscles, facilitating actions such as walking, talking, and other motor activities.

When a stimulus is received, the central nervous system processes this information and sends signals through the somatic nervous system to the appropriate skeletal muscles. This allows for precise control over muscle contractions, which is essential for voluntary movement.

The other systems mentioned do not serve this specific function. The autonomic nervous system, for example, regulates involuntary functions, such as heart rate and digestion, and does not control skeletal muscle directly. The peripheral nervous system includes the somatic nervous system but also encompasses other elements that handle less voluntary functions. Lastly, the central nervous system comprises the brain and spinal cord and is mainly involved in information processing and reflex actions rather than directly controlling skeletal muscles.