brain labeling

Where is the hypothalamus located?

Below the thalamus and above the pituitary gland, forming the floor of the third ventricle.

What is the main function of the hypothalamus?

Controls homeostasis — regulates body temperature, hunger, thirst, emotions, and hormone release via the pituitary gland.

What is the spinal cord?

Extends from the medulla oblongata down through the vertebral column.

What is the function of the spinal cord?

Transmits information between the brain and body; also coordinates reflexes.

What is the cerebral aqueduct?

A narrow canal running through the midbrain that connects the third and fourth ventricles.

What is the function of the cerebral aqueduct?

Allows cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to flow between ventricles.

What is a gyrus?

A ridge or raised fold on the brain’s surface that increases surface area.

What is a sulcus?

A shallow groove between gyri.

Where is the infundibulum located?

The stalk connecting the hypothalamus to the pituitary gland.

What is the function of the infundibulum?

Transmits hormones and signals between the hypothalamus and pituitary.

What is the corpus callosum?

Connects the left and right hemispheres; allows communication between them.

What is the function of the fornix?

Connects hippocampus to hypothalamus; involved in memory and emotion.

What is the thalamus?

Relay center for sensory information to the cerebral cortex.

What is the function of the pituitary gland?

Secretes hormones controlling growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

What does the pineal gland secrete?

Melatonin; regulates the sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm).

What is the function of the cerebellum?

Coordinates voluntary movement, balance, and posture.

What is the role of the medulla oblongata?

Controls vital functions: heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration.

What is the limbic system?

A complex set of brain structures located below the cortex involved in emotion, motivation, memory, and olfaction.

What is the function of the amygdala?

Primarily involved in processing emotions, particularly fear and aggression, and forming emotional memories.

What is the primary function of the hippocampus?

Crucial for the formation of new long-term memories and spatial navigation.

What does the cingulate gyrus do?

Involved in emotion formation and processing, learning, and memory.

What is the basal ganglia?

A group of subcortical nuclei involved in the control of voluntary motor movements, procedural learning, and habit formation.