Question

The part of brain controlling body temperature, urge for eating and drinking is

• A. Pituitary
• B. Cerebrum
• C. Hypothalamus
• D. Cerebellum

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Hypothalamus

Hypothalamus is mass of grey matter present at the base of cerebrum. The limbic system of hypothalamus that connects it with cerebral cortex is the centre of emotions, drives and instincts including appetite and satiate. It maintains the constant human body temperature by regulation of the diameter of blood vessels (constriction or dilation), shivering and sweating mechanisms. Option C is correct. Pituitary gland is associated with overall physical growth and development via its growth hormone as well as to instruct other endocrine glands to secrete their hormones via its tropic hormones. This makes option A incorrect. Cerebrum serves to receive sensory inputs, to bring about integration before commanding voluntary motor responses, to coordinate the activities of other part of brain, and to carry out higher thought processes for learning, memory, language and speech. This makes option B incorrect. Cerebellum serves to coordinate the voluntary movements of skeletal muscles as well as posture, balance and equilibrium.