Simple reflexive motor responses to external stimuli rely primarily on the function of the _______, whereas motor behaviors that are only minimally dependent on such external cues rely primarily on the function of the _______.
A)basal ganglia; spinal cord
B)cerebellum; brainstem
C)spinal cord; motor cortex
D)motor cortex; brainstem

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Simple reflexive motor responses, such as the knee-jerk reflex, are controlled by the spinal cord, which acts as a reflex center. Motor behaviors that are less dependent on external cues, such as walking or running, rely on more complex motor planning and coordination, which involves the motor cortex in the brain. The other options are not as accurate in describing the function of the structures listed. The basal ganglia are involved in movement planning and control, but not in generating simple reflexive responses. The cerebellum is important for coordination and error correction, but not necessarily for generating reflexive responses. The brainstem is involved in basic autonomic and motor functions, but does not play as much of a role in generating complex voluntary movements.

Simple Reflexive Motor Responses to External Stimuli Rely Primarily on the Function