Brain and Cerebrum

Neuron

A single cell capable of transmitting an electrochemical signal.

Control system

A system composed of interconnected neurons that regulate and coordinate various functions.

Cerebrum

The largest region of the brain responsible for conscious thought and complex intellectual functions.

Cerebellum

A region of the brain involved in motor control and coordination.

Brain stem

The region of the brain responsible for basic vital functions such as breathing and heart rate.

Diencephalon

A region of the brain that includes the thalamus and hypothalamus, involved in sensory relay and homeostasis.

Gyri/Gyrus

The folding on the surface of the cerebrum and cerebellum.

Sulci/Sulcus

The grooves or folds inside the brain.

Gray Matter

Dense clusters of neural cell bodies, dendrites, and unmyelinated axons.

White Matter

Areas of the brain composed of myelinated axons.

Ventricles

Hollow spaces in the center of the brain filled with cerebrospinal fluid.

Meninges

Multiple layers of connective tissue that protect the brain.

Meningitis

Inflammation of the meninges, often resulting in increased pressure on the brain.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Colorless fluid that circulates in the ventricles and subarachnoid space, providing buoyancy and cushioning for the brain.

Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB)

A protective barrier that prevents certain substances in the blood from directly contacting the brain.

Corpus Callosum

The largest tract of white matter connecting the two hemispheres of the cerebrum.

Lateralization of Cerebral Function

The phenomenon where each hemisphere of the cerebrum is responsible for sensory perception and motor control of the opposite side of the body.

Lobes of the Cerebrum

Anatomically and functionally distinct regions of each hemisphere, including the parietal, frontal, insula, occipital, and temporal lobes.

Motor Areas

Regions of the cerebrum involved in controlling voluntary motor functions.

Sensory Areas

Regions of the cerebrum responsible for conscious awareness of sensation.

Association Areas

Areas of the cerebrum that integrate and store information.

Motor Homunculus

A map illustrating specific regions of the primary motor cortex associated with controlling skeletal muscles.

Prefrontal Cortex

The region of the frontal lobe involved in decision-making and social interactions.