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Which structure controls automatic processes such as breathing, blood pressure and heart rate?
AThe cerebellum
BThe medulla
CThe amygdala
DThe thalamus
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. The medulla
1. The chapter assigns the basic life-support functions to the medulla.
2. It states that the medulla controls the automatic processes of the autonomic nervous system, such as breathing, blood pressure and heart rate.
3. The cerebellum instead handles balance, coordination, movement and motor skills, along with procedural memory.
4. The amygdala deals with emotion and the thalamus relays the senses, so neither maintains vital functions.
_Source: OpenStax Psychology (1st ed., CC BY 4.0), Ch 3 "Biopsychology", §3.4 The Brain and Spinal Cord_
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