Question

Injury localized to the hypothalamus would most likely disrupt

(A) regulation of body temperature.

(B) short-term memory.

(C) executive functions, such as decision making.

(D) sorting of sensory information.

Short answer

(A)The option “regulation of body temperature” iscorrect.

(B)The option “short-term memory” isincorrect.

(C)The option “executive functions, such as decision making” isincorrect.

(D)The option “sorting of sensory information” is incorrect.

Step-by-step solution

Function of different regions of the brain

The cerebrum is the most significant part of the brain divided into two hemispheres. The function of the cerebrum is to initiate and coordinate movement of the body. The cerebellum controls balance, posture, and muscle movement. The brain stem maintains breathing, digestion, and blood circulation.

Explanation of option ‘(A)’

The regulation of body temperature is the function of the hypothalamus present in the cerebrum. Hypothalamus checks the body temperature and compares it to the external temperature, thus maintaining the body temperature.

Thus, injury to the hypothalamus may disrupt the mechanism of regulating body temperature.

Therefore, the given option is correct.

Explanation of option ‘(B)’

The prefrontal cortex of the cerebrum manages short-term memory, so injury to the prefrontal cortex can cause short-term memory loss to the patient. The hippocampus region in the prefrontal cortex is associated with short-term memory.

Thus, injury to the hypothalamus may not affect short-term memory.

Therefore, the given option is incorrect.

Explanation of option ‘(C)’

The frontal lobes are responsible for all the executive functions like decision making. The frontal lobe is connected to different areas of the brain, and thus by coordinating with those areas, they carry out the executive functions.

Thus, injury to the hypothalamus will not cause any harm to the executive functioning of the brain.

Therefore, the given option is incorrect.

Explanation of option ‘(D)’

The sensory information is controlled by the thalamus of the brain. It receives signals from the sensory neurons of the body and then processes the brain's information for the body to react.

Thus, injury to the hypothalamus will not affect the sensory information sorting of the brain.

Therefore, the given option is incorrect.