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Multiple Choice
The swallowing reflex is controlled by the swallowing center in the ______.
A
thalamus
B
hypothalamus
C
cerebellum
D
medulla oblongata
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the swallowing reflex. The swallowing reflex is an involuntary action that ensures food and liquid pass safely from the mouth to the esophagus, bypassing the respiratory tract.
Step 2: Identify the role of the medulla oblongata. The medulla oblongata is part of the brainstem and is responsible for autonomic functions such as breathing, heart rate, and reflexes like swallowing.
Step 3: Compare the options provided. The thalamus is involved in sensory relay, the hypothalamus regulates homeostasis, and the cerebellum coordinates movement. None of these are directly responsible for controlling the swallowing reflex.
Step 4: Recognize that the medulla oblongata contains the swallowing center, which coordinates the muscles involved in swallowing and ensures the reflex occurs properly.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the medulla oblongata, as it is the anatomical structure responsible for controlling the swallowing reflex.