Which system is primarily responsible for voluntary movements?

The somatic nervous system is primarily responsible for voluntary movements because it is the part of the peripheral nervous system that controls skeletal muscles. This system allows individuals to perform intentional actions, such as walking, talking, and writing, by transmitting signals from the brain through motor neurons to the muscles.

The somatic nervous system specifically consists of motor neurons that synapse with muscle fibers, facilitating direct control over muscle contractions. This contrasts with the autonomic nervous system, which handles involuntary functions like heartbeat and digestion, and is not involved in voluntary muscle control. The central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, processes information and sends signals but does not directly control muscles. Although the peripheral nervous system encompasses both somatic and autonomic divisions, it is the somatic aspect that focuses on voluntary movements.