Q. Which one of the following parts of human brain is the regulating centre for swallowing and vomiting? (UPSC Prelims 2007)
Answer: Medulla oblongata
Notes: The medulla oblongata, located in the lower brainstem, is the primary regulating center for vital autonomic functions including swallowing (deglutition) and vomiting (emesis). It houses the swallowing center coordinating pharyngeal muscles and the vomiting center (area postrema) triggered by chemoreceptors for emetic reflexes. Cerebellum manages coordination, cerebrum handles higher cognition, and pons aids respiration but not these specific reflexes. This is confirmed by standard neuroanatomy: medulla controls cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal reflexes like gag, swallow, and vomit via cranial nerves IX, X, XII.