What part of the nervous system is primarily responsible for voluntary movements?

The somatic nervous system is primarily responsible for voluntary movements because it controls skeletal muscles, which are involved in conscious and controlled actions. This system provides the pathway for signals from the brain to the muscles, enabling individuals to perform movements intentionally, such as walking, running, or any physical activity that requires conscious effort.

The central nervous system, while crucial for processing information and coordinating bodily functions, includes both voluntary and involuntary responses. The autonomic nervous system primarily manages involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate, without conscious control. The peripheral nervous system encompasses both the autonomic and somatic systems, acting as a communication network between the central nervous system and the rest of the body, but it does not specify the voluntary aspect of movement. Hence, the somatic nervous system is the most accurate answer because it directly pertains to the voluntary control of muscles and movements.