Question

select the correct answer.
which statement best describes the effect nicotine has on the central nervous system?
a. it acts as a stimulant and causes pleasurable feelings.
b. it acts as a sedative and relaxes the mind.
c. it acts as both a stimulant and a sedative.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze the effects of nicotine on the central nervous system:

• Option A: While nicotine can cause pleasurable feelings, it is not just a stimulant. It has both stimulant and sedative effects depending on dosage and context, so A is incomplete.
• Option B: Nicotine is not primarily a sedative in the way described; it has stimulant properties too, so B is incorrect.
• Option C: Nicotine acts as a stimulant at lower doses (increasing alertness, etc.) and as a sedative at higher doses (calming effects), so it has both effects.

Answer:

C. It acts as both a stimulant and a sedative.