Human Brain Structure and Functions

This set of flashcards covers key terms related to the anatomy and functions of the human brain.

Pons

A bridge between the CNS and PNS, involved in regulating heart rate and motor control.

Midbrain

Part of the brain responsible for vision, hearing, and alertness.

Pituitary Gland

An endocrine gland that regulates metabolism and hormone secretion.

Occipital Lobe

Brain region primarily responsible for visual processing.

Medulla Oblongata

Controls autonomic functions like heart rate and breathing.

Parietal Lobe

Involved in sensory interpretation and integration of sensory information.

Hypothalamus

Regulates homeostasis, water balance, and metabolism.

Cerebellum

Coordinates movement and balance, often referred to as the 'little brain'.

Cerebral Cortex

Responsible for consciousness, planning, judgment, problem-solving, speech, memory, and emotion.

Thalamus

Acts as a relay station for sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex.

Corpus Callosum

A bundle of nerves that connects the two cerebral hemispheres.

Frontal Lobe

Located at the front of the brain; it is responsible for executive functions, motor skills, higher-level cognition, and expressive language.

Temporal Lobe

Located on the bottom of the brain; this lobe is the primary site for processing auditory information and is also heavily involved in memory formation.

Brainstem

The posterior part of the brain, adjoining and structurally continuous with the spinal cord, consisting of the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.