Walking a Tightrope Would Activate What Portion(s) of the Medulla

Question

Walking a tightrope would activate what portion(s) of the medulla?
A) the pyramids
B) the superior colliculi
C) the olives
D) the pyramids and the superior colliculi
E) the pyramids and the olives

Accepted Answer

The medulla oblongata is responsible for various autonomic functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure, as well as coordination of movement. The pyramids contain the motor tracts that control voluntary muscle movement, while the olives are involved in coordinating motor movements such as balance and coordination. Walking on a tightrope requires precise control of motor movements and balance, and would thus activate both the pyramids and the olives in the medulla.