Major Regions of the Brain

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the major regions and functions of the brain.

Cerebrum

The largest brain area, divided into two hemispheres, responsible for higher brain functions.

Diencephalon

The region located below the cerebrum, includes structures such as the thalamus and hypothalamus.

Cerebellum

Located below the cerebrum, involved in fine motor control, balance, and coordination.

Brainstem

Connects the cerebrum and spinal cord, controls involuntary functions.

Thalamus

Relays sensory signals to the cerebral cortex, acts as a sensory relay station.

Hypothalamus

Regulates autonomic functions, including temperature, hunger, and sleep-wake cycles.

Pineal Gland

Secretes melatonin, regulates sleep-wake cycles.

Homunculus

A representation of the body within the brain, showing the sensory and motor control areas.

Corpus Callosum

Connects the left and right hemispheres of the brain.

Cerebral Cortex

The outer layer of the brain involved in complex functions including thought and reasoning.

Prefrontal Cortex

Involved in complex thought, judgment, personality, and planning.

Broca Area

Motor speech area responsible for producing speech.

Wernicke Area

Responsible for language comprehension.

Primary Motor Cortex

Initiates voluntary movements.

Primary Somatosensory Cortex

Processes sensory input from the body.

Somatosensory Association Area

Interprets sensations and how things feel.

Cerebellar Cortex

The outer layer of the cerebellum, involved in coordination and balance.

Cerebral Lateralization

The specialization of the left and right hemispheres of the brain.

Medulla Oblongata

Controls vital life functions such as breathing and heart rate.

Cranial Nerves

A set of twelve nerves that carry signals to and from the brain.

Autonomic Nervous System

Controls involuntary bodily functions.

Vasomotor Cortex

Regulates blood vessel diameter and influences blood pressure.