ATI Pathophysiology Practice Exam

Which part of the brain is responsible for the regulation of body temperature?

1. Cerebellum

2. Medulla oblongata

3. Hypothalamus

4. Cerebrum

The correct answer is: Hypothalamus

The hypothalamus plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature and maintaining homeostasis. It acts as the body's thermostat, monitoring the temperature of the blood and receiving input from thermoreceptors located throughout the body. When the hypothalamus detects a deviation from the normal body temperature, it initiates appropriate physiological responses. For instance, if the body temperature rises, the hypothalamus triggers mechanisms such as sweating and vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) to promote cooling. Conversely, if the temperature drops, it can stimulate shivering and vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) to conserve heat. This regulatory function of the hypothalamus ensures that the body remains within a narrow temperature range optimal for enzymatic and metabolic functions. The other parts of the brain mentioned do not primarily control temperature regulation; for example, the cerebellum is mainly involved in coordination and balance, while the medulla oblongata regulates vital functions such as heart rate and respiration. The cerebrum is responsible for higher cognitive functions and processing sensory information.