Brain Stem and Cerebellum

Question 1

Parts of the brain stem

Answer 1

• midbrain
• pons
• medulla oblangata

Question 2

Midbrain

Answer 2

• connective functions: transmits motor messages from the cerebral cortex to lower regions of the CNS
• has the corpora quadrigemina that splits to inferior and superior colliculi

Question 3

Corpora quadrigemina

Answer 3

• superior colliculi: visual tracking reflex

- inferior colliculi: auditory startle reflex

Question 4

Pons

Answer 4

• mostly composed of fibre tracts
• connects higher brain centres and spinal cord
• connects the midbrain to the cerebellum
• with the medulla, it influences the breathing rhythm

Question 5

Medulla oblangata

Answer 5

• important connective functions; switch over point
• relay station for some sensory info
• autonomic reflex centre

Question 6

Autonomic reflex centre

Answer 6

• in medulla
• generates respiratory rhythm
• regulates HR and heart force and BP
• regulates vomiting, hiccuping, swallowing, coughing, sneezing

Question 7

Reticular formation

Answer 7

• clusters of neurons in the brain stem with wide dispersed axons
• involved in motor control of the visceral organs ex) digestive tract
• includes reticular activating system (RAS)

Question 8

RAS

Answer 8

• consciousness
• awake/sleep cycle
• filters sensory input (repetitive/unimportant Stimuli), strong impulses reach consciousness

Question 9

Cerebellum

Answer 9

• has two hemisphere
• outer cortex of grey matter and an inner region of white matter
• combines sensory and motor inputs to generate “blueprints” for movement
• timing and patterns of skeletal muscles contraction
• smooths out movement
• helps with balance