Module 11

Question 1

Brainstem

Answer 1

the oldest part and central core of the brain, beginning where the spinal cord swells as it enters the skull; the brainstem is responsible for automatic survival functions.

Question 2

Medulla

Answer 2

the base of the brainstem; controls heartbeat and breathing.

Question 3

Thalamus

Answer 3

the brain’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.

Question 4

Reticular Formation

Answer 4

a nerve network that travels through the brainstem into the thalamus and plays an important role in controlling arousal.

Question 5

Cerebullam

Answer 5

the “little brain” at the rear of the brainstem; functions include processing sensory input, coordinating movement output and balance, and enabling nonverbal learning and memory.

Question 6

Limbic System

Answer 6

neural system (including the amygdala, hypothalamus, and hippocampus) located below the cerebral hemispheres; associated with emotions and drives

Question 7

Amygdala

Answer 7

.two lima-bean-sized neural clusters in the limbic system; linked to emotion.

Question 8

Hypothalamus

Answer 8

a 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

Question 9

Hippocampus

Answer 9

a neural center located in the limbic system; helps process for storage explicit (conscious) memories of facts and events.

Question 10

Corpus Callosum

Answer 10

axon fibers connecting the two cerebral hemispheres