Tri A - Brain

Question 1

What are the sections of the brain?

Answer 1

Brainstem - medulla, pons, midbrain
Diencephalon - thalamus, hypothalamus
Cerebrum
Cerebellum

Question 2

What is the function of the brainstem?

Answer 2

It is the site of the control centres for cardiovascular and respiratory control

Question 3

How many nerves are in the peripheral nervous system?

Answer 3

31 spinal nerves, 12 cranial nerves

Question 4

What enters and leaves the Brainstem via the cranial nerves?

Answer 4

Sensory input from the neck & head and control of head & eye movements

Question 5

What is the function of the Thalamus?

Answer 5

It is an important junction for spinal cord pathways
It receives input from other brain areas, often called the relay centre

Question 6

What is the function of the Hypothalamus?

Answer 6

Controls a number of functions such as thirst, temperature and hormone levels

Question 7

What is the function of the Cerebellum?

Answer 7

Coordinates movement

Question 8

Where does the Cerebellum receive information from and what do these areas control?

Answer 8

Spinal cord - influences limb movement
Other brain areas - movement planning
Inner ear - controls balance and eye movements

Question 9

What is the function of the Cerebrum?

Answer 9

Both hemispheres analyse sensory input and control movement

Question 10

What are the differences between the functions of the Right and Left Cerebrum hemispheres

Answer 10

Right: Analyse visual patterns
3D images of objects
Left: Language
Comprehension of words

Question 11

What is the function of the Basal Ganglia within the cerebrum?

Answer 11

They plan and initiate movement

Question 12

Describe the Cerebral Cortex within the cerebrum

Answer 12

It is highly folded and can be split into regions: Frontal Cortex,
Temporal Cortex,
Parietal Cortex,
Occipital Cortex

Question 13

What is the function of Sensory Areas of the cerebral cortex?

Answer 13

Identification, Localisation, Analysis

Question 14

What is the function of Motor Areas of the cerebral cortex?

Answer 14

Produces Movement, Plans Movement

Question 15

What is the function of the Somatosensory Cortex?

Answer 15

Identifies and localises sensory input from skin, muscles and joints

Question 16

What factors determine the size of the brain area?

Answer 16

Amount of sensory input from the body
Degree of control of muscles required

Question 17

What areas use the largest areas of the brain?

Answer 17

Information from the face and hands

Question 18

What can additional areas of the cortex be involved in?

Answer 18

Movement, Sensation, Perception, Cortical association areas

Question 19

What 2 fluids are present in the brain?

Answer 19

Cerebrospinal fluid and blood

Question 20

Why should fluid levels in the brain be kept constant?

Answer 20

Limited space,
Brain intolerant to lack of oxygen,
Chemical environment should be kept constant

Question 21

What is the function of Cerebrospinal Fluid?

Answer 21

It creates a constant chemical environment
It is protective cushioning for neural tissue

Question 22

Where do the arteries that supply the brain arise from?

Answer 22

The circle of Willis at the base of the brain