Question

Which of the following structures is primarily responsible for the moving of visual attention from one object or position in space to another?

Select one:
a. thalamus
b. reticular activating system
c. cingulate cortex
d. superior colliculus

Answer 1

The d)superior colliculus is responsible for coordinating visual attention shifts and head and eye movements, which is crucial for actions such as catching a ball.

Step-by-step explanation:

The structure primarily responsible for the moving of visual attention from one object or position in space to another is the superior colliculus. This part of the brain is located in the midbrain and is part of the tectum. The superior colliculus integrates sensory information about visual space, auditory space, and somatosensory space, and is involved in the coordination of head and eye movements. For example, when catching a ball, the superior colliculus helps to coordinate eye and head movements so that the visual field is properly oriented to track and predict the trajectory of the ball. This integration ensures efficient and quick shifts of attention and gaze to relevant stimuli in our environment.