Functions Flashcards
Medulla oblongata
Site of decussation and contains gray matter called nuclei that control vital functions.
Pons
Bridge between medulla and upper brain stem, has nuclei that relay messages from cerebrum and cerebellum, and breathing.
Midbrain
Has four nuclei that form mounds on brain surface. Two are involved with hearing and two with seeing. Hearing and seeing reflexes. Also nerve pathways from brain stem to upper brain.
Reticular formation
Nuclei distributed throughout the brain that receive information from afferent nerves. These nuclei and interconnections called reticular activation system has a role in sleeping.
Diencephalon
Between brain with the thalamus and the hypothalamus.
Thalamus
Major relay station, incoming axons from touch related sensory neurons, mood, and movement.
Hypothalamus
Regulates pituitary gland hormones, automatic nervous system, body temperature.
Cerebrum
Largest part of brain, reasoning, memory, higher level brain functions.