Brain Quiz Flashcards
Where is the cerebellum and what is its function?
The hindbrain’s “little brain” at the rear of the brainstem; functions include processing sensory input, coordinating movement output and balance, and enabling nonverbal learning and memory.
pg. 55 & G-2
Where is the hypothalamus and what is its function?
A limbic system neural structure lying below (hypo) the thalamus; it directs several maintenance activities (eating, drinking, body temperature), helps govern the endocrine system via the pituitary gland, and is linked to emotion and reward.
center mass of brain below the egg shaped thalamus
Pg. 57 & G-5
Where is the pituitary gland and what is its function?
The endocrine system’s most influential gland. Under the influence of the hypothalamus, the pituitary regulates growth and controls other endocrine glands.
bean/pea sized
Pg. 49 & G-8
Where is the amygdala and what is its function?
Two lima-bean-sized neural clusters in the limbic system; linked to emotion.
Behind the hypothalamus
Pg. 56 & G-1
Where is the hippocampus and what is its function?
A neural center located in the limbic system that helps process explicit (conscious) memories—of facts and events—for storage.
Wraps around the ear
Pg. 58 & G-5
Where is the thalamus and what is its function?
The forebrain’s sensory control center, located on top of the brainstem; it directs messages to the sensory receiving areas in the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla.
central brain stem top
Pg. 55 & G-11
Where is the motor cortex and what is its function?
A cerebral cortex area at the rear of the frontal lobes that controls voluntary movements.
front of brain
Pg. 60 & G-7
Where is the somatosensory cortex and what is its function?
A cerebral cortex area at the front of the parietal lobes that registers and processes body touch and movement sensations.
middle top of brain
Pg. 61 & G-10
Where is the reticular formation and what is its function?
A nerve network that travels through the brainstem into the thalamus; filters information and plays an important role in controlling arousal.
Pg. 55 & G-9
Where is the medulla and what is its function?
The hindbrain structure that is the brainstem’s base; controls heartbeat and breathing.
base of brain stem
Pg. 55 & G-6
Where is the frontal lobes and what is its function?
The portion of the cerebral cortex lying just behind the forehead; involved in speaking and muscle movements and in making plans and judgments.
Pg. 59 & G-4
Where is the parietal lobes and what is its function?
The portion of the cerebral cortex lying at the top of the head and toward the rear; receives sensory input for touch and body position.
Pg. 59 & G-7
Where is the occipital lobes and what is its function?
The portion of the cerebral cortex lying at the back of the head; includes areas that receive information from the visual fields.
Pg. 59 & G-7
Where is the temporal lobes and what is its function?
The portion of the cerebral cortex lying roughly above the ears; includes the auditory areas, each receiving information primarily from the opposite ear.
Pg. 60 & G-11
What are the parts of a neuron?
Dendrite: a neuron’s fingers that receive neuro transmitters and integrate messages, conducting impulses toward the cell body.
Myelin Sheath: a protective fatty tissue layer encasing the axons of some neurons.
Cell Body: the part of a neuron that contains the nucleus; the cell’s life-support center.
Terminal: a specialized region of a neuron at the end of the axon, whose function is to release neurotransmitter when stimulated by an electrical signal.
Axon: the segmented neuron extension that passes messages through its branches to other neurons or to muscles or glands.
Pg. 40
