Anatomy & Physiology - Brain Structures

Flashcards focused on vocabulary related to brain anatomy and physiology, highlighting key structures and their functions.

Forebrain

The anterior part of the brain, including the cerebral hemispheres and diencephalon, involved in complex functions.

Cerebral Cortex

The outer layer of the cerebrum responsible for higher brain functions such as thought and action.

Thalamus

A relay station in the diencephalon that processes and transmits sensory information to the cerebral cortex.

Cerebellum

Part of the hindbrain that is involved in balance and coordination.

Corpus Callosum

A band of white matter that connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres.

Hypothalamus

A brain region that controls the autonomic nervous system and regulates functions such as hunger and thirst.

Pineal Gland

A gland in the brain that produces melatonin, influencing sleep-wake cycles.

Medulla Oblongata

Part of the brainstem responsible for regulating basic life functions such as heartbeat and breathing.

Cerebellar Peduncles

Connect the cerebellum to the brainstem and are involved in motor control and coordination.

Central Sulcus

A shallow groove that separates the frontal lobe from the parietal lobe in the cerebral cortex.

Primary Motor Cortex

Located in the frontal lobe, it is responsible for voluntary movement.

Postcentral Gyrus

Located in the parietal lobe, it processes somatosensory information.

Inferior Colliculi

Part of the midbrain involved in auditory reflexes.

Superior Colliculi

Part of the midbrain involved in visual reflexes.