Tri A - Brain Flashcards
What are the sections of the brain?
Brainstem - medulla, pons, midbrain
Diencephalon - thalamus, hypothalamus
Cerebrum
Cerebellum
What is the function of the brainstem?
It is the site of the control centres for cardiovascular and respiratory control
How many nerves are in the peripheral nervous system?
31 spinal nerves, 12 cranial nerves
What enters and leaves the Brainstem via the cranial nerves?
Sensory input from the neck & head and control of head & eye movements
What is the function of the Thalamus?
It is an important junction for spinal cord pathways
It receives input from other brain areas, often called the relay centre
What is the function of the Hypothalamus?
Controls a number of functions such as thirst, temperature and hormone levels
What is the function of the Cerebellum?
Coordinates movement
Where does the Cerebellum receive information from and what do these areas control?
Spinal cord - influences limb movement
Other brain areas - movement planning
Inner ear - controls balance and eye movements
What is the function of the Cerebrum?
Both hemispheres analyse sensory input and control movement
What are the differences between the functions of the Right and Left Cerebrum hemispheres
Right: Analyse visual patterns
3D images of objects
Left: Language
Comprehension of words
What is the function of the Basal Ganglia within the cerebrum?
They plan and initiate movement
Describe the Cerebral Cortex within the cerebrum
It is highly folded and can be split into regions: Frontal Cortex,
Temporal Cortex,
Parietal Cortex,
Occipital Cortex
What is the function of Sensory Areas of the cerebral cortex?
Identification, Localisation, Analysis
What is the function of Motor Areas of the cerebral cortex?
Produces Movement, Plans Movement
What is the function of the Somatosensory Cortex?
Identifies and localises sensory input from skin, muscles and joints
What factors determine the size of the brain area?
Amount of sensory input from the body
Degree of control of muscles required
What areas use the largest areas of the brain?
Information from the face and hands
What can additional areas of the cortex be involved in?
Movement, Sensation, Perception, Cortical association areas
What 2 fluids are present in the brain?
Cerebrospinal fluid and blood
Why should fluid levels in the brain be kept constant?
Limited space,
Brain intolerant to lack of oxygen,
Chemical environment should be kept constant
What is the function of Cerebrospinal Fluid?
It creates a constant chemical environment
It is protective cushioning for neural tissue
Where do the arteries that supply the brain arise from?
The circle of Willis at the base of the brain
