Which brain region coordinates movement and motor control?

• A. Cerebrum
• B. Cerebellum
• C. Brainstem
• D. Hypothalamus

Answer: (B)

The cerebellum is the region that coordinates movement and motor control. It acts as a sophisticated comparator, receiving a plan for movement from the motor areas of the brain and real-time sensory feedback from the body. By comparing intended motion with actual performance, it adjusts the timing and force of muscle activity to produce smooth, accurate movements, maintain balance and posture, and support motor learning. When the cerebellum is affected, movements become uncoordinated and imprecise—ataxia—with signs like dysmetria (missed targets), intention tremor, and wide-based gait. The cerebrum handles planning and initiation of movement, the brainstem supports basic motor patterns and reflexes, and the hypothalamus governs homeostatic functions, not the fine-tuning of movement.