Brain Structures and Functions

Flashcards for exam review covering key brain structures and their functions.

Motor Cortex

Specialized cells in the brain that control voluntary movements in the body.

Thalamus

The brain's sensory switchboard, directing messages to the cortex and transmitting replies.

Parietal Lobe

The lobe of the brain mediating attention and receiving sensations of skin and muscles from the opposite half of the body.

Occipital Lobe

The lobe of the brain responsible for visual processing.

Limbic System

A collection of brain structures including the hippocampus, amygdala, and hypothalamus.

Cerebellum

Coordinates movement, output, and balance; enables nonverbal learning and memory. It's the little brain behind the brain stem.

Pons

Acts as a bridge or message system between the spine and the brain.

Amygdala

Two lima bean-sized neural clusters in the limbic system responsible for emotions like aggression and fear.

Medulla Oblongata

Controls autonomic functions such as breathing, digestion, heartbeat, and swallowing.

Pituitary Gland

Links the endocrine gland to the brain through the hypothalamus, releasing the growth hormone.

Hypothalamus

Located below the thalamus; directs maintenance activities like eating, drinking, and body temperature; helps govern the endocrine system.

Corpus Callosum

A narrow band of nerve fibers that connects the two brain hemispheres.

Frontal Lobe

Responsible for planning, thinking, decision-making, higher-level thought, and processing.

Broca's Area

Located in the frontal lobe (left hemisphere); helps to produce speech.