The Vertebrate Brain

Question 1

Cerebrum (Forebrain)

Answer 1

Localizes, processes sensory inputs; initiates, controls skeletal muscle activity; governs memory, emotions, abstract thought in the most complex vertebrates

Question 2

Olfactory lobe (Forebrain)

Answer 2

Relays sensory input from nose to olfactory centres of cerebrum

Question 3

Thalamus (Forebrain)

Answer 3

Has relay stations for conducting sensory signals to and from cerebral cortex; has role in memory

Question 4

Hypothalamus (Forebrain)

Answer 4

With pituitary gland, a homeostatic control center. Adjusts volume, composition, temperature of internal environment; governs organ-related behaviour, and expression of emotions

Question 5

Limbic system (Forebrain)

Answer 5

Governs emotions; has role in memory

Question 6

Pituitary gland (Forebrain)

Answer 6

With hypothalamus, provides endocrine control of metabolism, growth, development

Question 7

Pineal gland (Forebrain)

Answer 7

Helps control some circadian rhythms, also has role in mammalian reproduction

Question 8

Roof of midbrain (tectum)

Answer 8

In fish and amphibians: centres coordinate sensory input, motor responses
In mammals: reflex centres swiftly relay sensory input to the forebrain

Question 9

Pons (Hindbrain)

Answer 9

Tracts bridges cerebellum and cerebrum, connects spinal cords with forebrain. With the medulla oblongata, controls rate and depth of respiration

Question 10

Cerebellum (Hindbrain)

Answer 10

Coordinates motor activity for moving limbs and maintaining posture, and for spatial orientation

Question 11

Medulla oblongata (Hindbrain)

Answer 11

Tracts relay signals between spinal cord and pons; its reflex centres help control heart rate, adjustments in blood vessel diameter, respiratory rate, vomiting, coughing, other vital functions