Question

If you are reading and you unexpectedly hear a loud noise, your head generally snaps up. Which portion of the midbrain is most likely to be responsible for this reflexive motion? a. the inferior colliculus b. the superior colliculus c. the red nucleus d. the substantia nigra

Answer 1

Answer: The answer is A: The Inferior Colliculus

Explanation:

The inferior Colliculi play a major role in hearing. Since the loud noise was what prompted the response it is safe to say the inferior Colliculi is responsible.

Neurons in the inferior Colliculi respond to cues such as intensity, the difference red in arrival of sound to both ears.

However, the head snaps up because the information from the inferior Colliculi is transmitted to the superior Colliculi which is involved with movement such as the head.