Which part of the brain is Incorrectly matched with its descriptor?
a. brainstem – regulates visceral activities like heart and respiratory rates
b. cerebellum – coordinates muscle activity
c. diencephalon – contains the hypothalamus and thalamus
d. cerebrum – contains the pons and medulla
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is d. cerebrum – contains the pons and medulla.
Explanation:
The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain, responsible for higher brain functions such as thought, memory, emotion, and voluntary movement. It consists of two hemispheres and includes regions such as the frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobes. However, the cerebrum does not contain the pons and medulla.
The pons and medulla are part of the brainstem, not the cerebrum. The brainstem, which is located below the cerebrum and in front of the cerebellum, is composed of the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata. The brainstem regulates critical functions such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and reflexes. Specifically, the pons is involved in regulating sleep and respiration, while the medulla oblongata controls vital functions like breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate.
Let’s review the other options:
- a. brainstem – regulates visceral activities like heart and respiratory rates is correct. The brainstem, including the pons and medulla, controls vital autonomic functions.
- b. cerebellum – coordinates muscle activity is also correct. The cerebellum helps with balance, coordination, and fine-tuning voluntary muscle movements.
- c. diencephalon – contains the hypothalamus and thalamus is correct as well. The diencephalon includes the thalamus, which acts as a relay center for sensory information, and the hypothalamus, which regulates autonomic functions like temperature, hunger, and emotional responses.
Thus, the incorrect match is d because the pons and medulla are part of the brainstem, not the cerebrum.