The Brain Flashcards
What are the 4 main parts of the brain?
The cerebrum
The cerebellum
The hypothalamus and pituitary complex
The medulla oblongata
Describe the cerebrum?
Largest part of the brain
Has two cerebral hemispheres
Connected by corpus callousness
Outer layer consists of cerebral cortex
What is the corpus callosum?
Major tracts of neurones which connects the two cerebral hemispheres in the cerebrum
What is the cerebral cortex?
A thin layer of nerve cell bodies making up the outer layer of the cerebrum.
Function of cerebrum?
Controls higher brain functions
Specific examples of what the cerebrum controls?
Conscious thought Conscious actions Emotional responses Intelligence Decision making Factual memory
What are the 3 sub divisions of the cerebral cortex?
Sensory areas
Association areas
Motor areas
Role of sensory areas in cerebral cortex?
Receive action potentials indirectly from sensory receptors. The size of the region relates to the sensitivity of the area that the inputs are received from.
Role of association areas?
To compare sensory inputs with previous experience, interpret the input and judge on appropriate response.
Role of motor areas?
To send action potentials to various effectors. The size of regions are related to the complexity of the movements needed in the parts of the body. Morse area on the left side of the brain control effectors on the right.
What is the function of the cerebellum?
Involved in balance and coordinating movement
Functions of the medulla oblongata?
Responsible for the control of basic vital functions
Which sensory receptors supply info to the cerebellum?
Retina
Balance organs in inner ear
Spindle fibres in muscle
What movements does the cerebellum coordinate?
Maintaining body position and balance
Judging position of objects and limbs
Coordinating contraction and relaxation of antagonistic skeletal muscles
What does the hypothalamus control?
Temperature regulation
Osmoregulation
