Question

Where are the biggest neurons in the brain, the Betz cells, located?

A. In the motor cortex, area five and layer four.
B. In the cerebellum.
C. In the motor cortex, area four and layer five.
D. In the temporal lobe.
E. Humans do not have Betz cells located anywhere in our brains.

Answer 1

The Betz cells are located in the primary motor cortex, more precisely in area four and layer five of the precentral gyrus of the frontal lobe, and are imperative for motor function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Betz cells, which are the largest neurons in the brain, are located in the primary motor cortex. Specifically, they are found in area four of the motor cortex and within layer five. These cells play a crucial role in motor functions as their axons form part of the descending pathways known as the corticobulbar and corticospinal tracts.

These tracts connect the cortex with the brain stem and the spinal cord, enabling the control of musculature throughout the body. The primary motor cortex itself is located in the precentral gyrus of the frontal lobe, and it is involved in planning, controlling, and executing voluntary movements.