Alice is typing her term paper in the computer lab. Although a class is going on just a few feet away, she does not seem to notice. Which part of the brain allows Alice to focus on her typing and ignore the distractions that surround her?
A) reticular formation
B) pons
C) medulla
D) cerebellum

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reticular formation is responsible for selective attention and helps to filter out unnecessary stimuli. Alice is able to focus on her typing and ignore the distractions around her because her reticular formation is filtering out the auditory stimuli from the class. The pons and medulla are responsible for basic life-sustaining functions like breathing and heart rate, and the cerebellum is responsible for balance and coordination.

Alice Is Typing Her Term Paper in the Computer Lab