Question

Lower portion of the brain that extends downwards into the spinal cord is called

• A. Pons
• B. Medulla
• C. Cerebellum
• D. Olfactory lobes

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Medulla

The correct option is B.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. The lowest section of the brain and the brainstem is the medulla oblongata, often known as the medulla.
2. The medulla oblongata connects with the spinal cord at the foramen magnum opening at the base of the skull and is continuous posteriorly with the midbrain via the pons.

Explanation of the Incorrect option:

Option A:

1. The base of our brain is called the medulla oblongata.
2. Because of its location, where our brain and spinal cord converge, it serves as a vital pathway for nerve messages traveling to and from our body.
3. The medulla is connected by pons, which are positioned superior to the medulla.

Option C:

1. The cerebellum, also known as the "small brain," is a structure in the back of the brain that lies beneath the occipital and temporal lobes of the cerebral cortex.
2. The cerebellum is positioned backward to the pons, which is also superior to the medulla.

Option D:

1. The front of the brain's cerebrum, or anterior end, has a pair of lobes called the olfactory lobes.
2. It belongs to the prosencephalon, a part of the forebrain, and is involved in olfaction, or the sense of smell.
3. The olfactory lobes are present on the inferior side of the cerebral components, located on the lateral side of the brain.

Final answer: The Lower portion of the brain that extends downwards into the spinal cord is called the medulla.