Question

(a) What is the spinal cord? What is its main function?

(b) Give the functions of the medulla.

Answer 1

(a) The spinal cord is a part of the central nervous system. It is a cylindrical structure enclosed by a bony cage called the vertebral column. It is responsible for spinal reflex actions and the conduction of nerve impulses to and from the brain.

(b) The medulla controls various involuntary actions such as the heartbeat, breathing, blood pressure and peristaltic movements of the alimentary canal.