Section 3.4: The Cerebral Cortex - Terms

Cerebral cortex

The outermost layer of the brain, responsible for higher-level functions such as thinking, perception, and decision-making.

Frontal lobe

The region at the front of the brain involved in reasoning, planning, motor control, problem-solving, and aspects of personality.

Parietal lobe

The region of the brain located behind the frontal lobe, responsible for processing sensory information related to touch, spatial awareness, and coordination.

Occipital lobe

The region at the back of the brain primarily responsible for processing visual information.

Temporal lobe

The region of the brain located on the sides, involved in auditory processing, memory, and emotional responses.

Motor cortex

The area of the frontal lobe responsible for planning, controlling, and executing voluntary movements.

Somatosensory cortex

The area of the parietal lobe that processes sensory information from the body, such as touch, temperature, and pain.

Association areas

Regions of the cerebral cortex that are involved in higher mental functions, such as thinking, memory, language, and perception, and integrate sensory input.

Plasticity

The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections in response to learning, experience, or injury.

Neurogenesis

The process of generating new neurons (nerve cells) in the brain, particularly in areas like the hippocampus, which is involved in learning and memory.