UPSC Prelims 2007 Q115: Science & Technology – Biology
Which one of the following parts of the human brain is the regulating centre for
swallowing and vomiting?
- (a) Cerebellum
- (b) Cerebrum
- (c) Medulla oblongata
- (d) Pons
Answer: (c) Medulla oblongata
Explanation
Brain parts and their main jobs
| Part | Main functions |
|---|---|
| Medulla oblongata | Involuntary reflexes — swallowing, vomiting, coughing, sneezing; controls heartbeat, breathing, blood pressure |
| Pons | Relay station; helps regulate breathing rhythm |
| Cerebellum | Balance, posture, coordination of movement |
| Cerebrum | Thinking, memory, speech, voluntary actions, senses |
| Hypothalamus | Hunger, thirst, body temperature |
The medulla is part of the hindbrain and joins the brain to the spinal cord.
Answer: (c) Medulla oblongata.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The cerebellum handles balance and coordination.
- (b) Incorrect. The cerebrum handles thinking and voluntary action.
- (c) CORRECT. The medulla oblongata controls swallowing and vomiting reflexes.
- (d) Incorrect. The pons is a relay centre and helps with breathing rhythm.
Key point
Medulla = involuntary reflexes (swallow, vomit, cough, sneeze) + heart and breathing. Cerebellum = balance.
Remember
The medulla oblongata controls swallowing and vomiting.
Common mistakes
- Choosing the cerebellum because it is also in the hindbrain.
- Thinking swallowing is fully voluntary — the later stages are a reflex.
- Mixing up the hypothalamus (hunger, thirst) with the medulla (vomiting).
Exam tip
Medulla = 'automatic pilot'. If you do it without thinking (heartbeat, sneeze, vomit) → medulla.
Sources
- NCERT Class X — Science, Ch 7 (Control and Coordination)
- NCERT Class XI — Biology, Ch 18 (Neural Control and Coordination)