The Brain
Lucy, Priya, Megan, Carol
Medulla Oblangata
The Medulla Oblangata is located at the bottom of the brain stem. It carries out and regulates life sustaining functions, such as swallowing and breathing. It also contains the control centers for the heart and lungs. The medulla Oblangata is considered the most important part of the brain because it controls our involuntary functions.
Pons
The Pons is located in the middle of the brainstem. It conducts messages to other parts of the brain, connecting the upper and lower parts of the brain. Without the pons, the brain would not be able to function because there would be no way to transmit messages. Scientists believe that REM most likely happens in the pons.
Spinal Cord
The spinal cord is a cylindrical bundle of nerve fibers and associated tissue that is enclosed in the spine and connects nearly all parts of the body to the brain. It is made up of 31 segments: 8 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral, and 1 coccygeal.