Understanding the Brain: Structure and Functions

These flashcards cover key concepts related to brain structure and functions as discussed in the lecture.

Cerebrum

The largest division of the brain, divided into two hemispheres that communicate via the corpus callosum.

Corpus Callosum

A deep structure in the cerebrum that allows communication between the two hemispheres.

Basal Nuclei

Responsible for cognitive processing, including thinking and planning actions or movements.

Limbic Cortex

Part of the limbic system involved in emotion, memory, and behavior.

Cerebral Cortex

The gray matter on the outer surface of the cerebrum, involved in many brain functions.

Gyrus/Gyri

Elevated ridges on the brain's surface.

Sulcus/Sulci

Small grooves that divide the gyri of the brain.

Frontal Lobe

Involved in motor functions and higher cognitive functions, including personality and decision-making.

Broca's Area

Responsible for producing coherent speech, typically located in the left hemisphere.

Broca's Aphasia

A condition resulting from damage to Broca's area, causing reduced fluency in speech.

Parietal Lobe

Involved in sensory functions, including processing touch, proprioception, and taste.

Wernicke's Area

Responsible for understanding language, typically in the left hemisphere.

Wernicke's Aphasia

A condition where language comprehension is impaired, affecting the ability to understand and produce coherent sentences.

Occipital Lobe

Responsible for vision, processing visual information received from the eyes.

Primary Visual Cortex

Receives and interprets visual information such as size, color, and motion.

Prefrontal Cortex

Responsible for personality, short-term memory, and conscious thought.

Prefrontal Lobotomy

An outdated procedure aimed at treating personality disorders by altering brain function.