In the context of the autonomic nervous system, which functions are predominantly regulated?

The correct answer highlights that the autonomic nervous system is primarily responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions. This division of the nervous system controls processes that happen automatically and without conscious effort. These functions include heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, pupillary response, and sexual arousal, among others.

By managing these essential physiological processes, the autonomic nervous system maintains homeostasis within the body, allowing it to function effectively without the need for conscious thought or voluntary control. This is in contrast to voluntary movements, which are consciously controlled by the somatic nervous system, or reflex actions, which are quick responses to stimuli that can involve both voluntary and involuntary pathways. Cognitive functions pertain to mental processes and are not directly regulated by the autonomic nervous system.