Answer
Fig.14.10
The reticular formation is labelled on all three parts of the figure.
Work Step by Step
The recticular formation (RF) is a network of nuclei and fibers that exist throughout the braistem.--medulla pons and midbrain. Te architecture is diffuse and not completely elucidated. Radiations from the RF connects te system to spinal cord, cerebellum and the cerebrum. The RF has many functions, its most well-known roles are in the mediation of arousal, consciousness, and sleep and wakefulness (RAS). Somatic control functions include the adjustment of muscle tone and maintenance of balance and position.
Other functions of the RF:
a. The integration of visual, auditory and vestibular stimuli. This facilitates tracking of moving
objects, and generation of patterns, for example, in breathing and swallowing.
b. Mediation of pain ( lower centers to cortex) and output of analgesic signals( from cerebral cortex
down spinal cord).
c. Habituation: RF helps the brain learn how to ignore inconsequential repetitie signals while
keeping the focus on current important ones.
