Which of the Following "Brain Claims" is True

Question

Which of the following "brain claims" is true?
A) The medulla oblongata is the upper part of the diencephalon.
B) The hypothalamus is a brain stem structure.
C) The medulla oblongata performs the "executive functions."
D) The midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata are infratentorial structures.

Accepted Answer

The midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata are all located in the brain stem, which is an infratentorial structure (meaning it is located below the tentorium cerebelli, a fold of the dura mater that separates the cerebellum from the cerebrum). Choice A is incorrect because the medulla oblongata is actually part of the hindbrain, not the diencephalon. Choice B is incorrect because while the hypothalamus is located near the brain stem, it is not itself a brain stem structure. Choice C is also incorrect because the "executive functions" (which include things like decision making, planning, and problem solving) are primarily associated with the prefrontal cortex, not the medulla oblongata.