A child is having a tantrum. He tells his parents that he is going to hold his breath until he turns blue. Fortunately, the ________, which controls his breathing (along with the beating of his heart), won't let him do so.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The medulla, part of the brainstem, controls involuntary functions such as breathing and heart rate. It will override the child's conscious effort to hold his breath, ensuring that breathing resumes before any harm occurs.  The medulla is located at the very top of the spinal cord within the brain stem. The medulla is essential for breathing, blood pressure, and the beating of the heart, which all happen automatically, without conscious control.

A Child Is Having a Tantrum