Brain Structure and Functions

This set of flashcards covers key terms and definitions related to various structures and functions of the brain, aimed at aiding exam preparation.

Medulla

The lowest part of the brain that controls essential life functions such as breathing, heartbeat, and blood pressure.

Pons

A structure in the brain that regulates arousal and serves as a bridge for information transfer between the upper brain and the spinal cord.

Reticular Activating System (RAS)

A network of neurons in the brain that regulates arousal and the focus of attention.

Cerebellum

A part of the brain that controls voluntary movements, balance, muscle tone, and the learning of motor skills.

Thalamus

A relay station for sensory information, processing and forwarding it to the appropriate areas of the brain.

Hippocampus

A structure involved in the formation of new memories and cognitive maps, vulnerable to stress and associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Amygdala

A brain structure linked to aggression, emotional experiences, threat detection, and the perception of emotions.

Hypothalamus

A brain region that regulates vital functions including drives (hunger, thirst), homeostasis, and social bonding.

Cerebral Cortex

The outer layer of the cerebrum responsible for the most complex mental functions, consisting of two hemispheres.

Corpus Callosum

A bundle of nerve fibers that connects the left and right hemispheres of the brain, facilitating communication.

Primary Areas

Regions in each lobe of the cerebral cortex linked to processing motor or sensory information.

Visual Cortex

The area located in the occipital lobes that processes visual information.

Auditory Cortex

The area found in the temporal lobes that processes auditory information.

Somatosensory Cortex

Located in the parietal lobes, it processes sensory information related to touch, pain, and temperature.