Question

Give a reason for the following:

A blow at the back of the head can lead to instant death.

Answer 1

Medulla oblongata:

1. Medulla oblongata or medulla is the long stem-like part of the brain that makes up the lowest portion of the brainstem.

A blow at the back of the head can lead to death:

1. A blow at the back of the head can lead to instant death because it can cause damage to the medulla oblongata which acts as a reflex centre for respiration, heartbeat, etc.
2. Thus, all the life processes will get ceased by blowing at the back of the head.