McKinley_-_3E_-_CH_13_-_Brain_Cliff_Notes_Version_-_ACTIVE

Neuron

A nerve cell that transmits information and contains a body, axon, and dendrites.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons where communication occurs.

Inter-connectivity

The complex network of connections between different neurons in the brain.

I: Brain Stem

The area of the brain responsible for controlling basic life functions such as breathing and heart rate.

II: Cerebellum

The part of the brain that regulates balance, coordination, and fine muscle movement.

Arbor Vitae

The tree-like white matter structure in the cerebellum.

III: Diencephalon

The central part of the brain that includes the thalamus and hypothalamus.

Thalamus

Functions as the grand gentral station or as the brain's 'router,' relaying sensory information to the proper areas. located inside the diencephalon

Hypothalamus

Controls the endocrine system and links the nervous system to hormonal signaling (limbic system). located inside the diencephalon

Limbic System

The brain region involved in emotions, memory, and arousal. located inside the hypothalamus in the diencephalon

Epithalamus

Contains the pineal gland, which produces melatonin, affecting sleep cycles. located Posterior to the Thalamus inside the diencephalon

pineal Gland

a Pine Cone - Shaped Structure That Produces the Hormone Melatonin When Sunlight Enters Into the Eye. in the epithalamus

Cerebral Cortex

The outer layer of the brain associated with higher brain functions such as thought and action.

IV: Cerebral Cortex or cerebrum

Rational, Logical ThinkingOccurs, Along With Creative, Artistic Thinking.

area 17: Primary Visual Cortex

Processes visual information from the eyes.

Areas 41 and 42 : Primary Auditory Cortex

Processes sound information from the auditory system.

Primary Motor Cortex

Controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles.

frontal cortex manages

Executive Functions that include analysis, planning, and problem-solving.

Wernicke's Area

Brain area responsible for understanding spoken and written language.

Broca's Area

Region in the frontal lobe involved in speech production and language processing.

Association Areas

Regions of the brain that integrate and assign meaning to sensory experiences.

Cranial Nerves

Twelve pairs of nerves that emerge directly from the brain.

Meninges

Three protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Ventricles

4 chambers that contain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Cerebrospinal Fluid

Fluid that cushions and protects the brain and spinal cord.

Choroid Plexus

produces cerebrospinal fluid.

Blood-Brain Barrier

A selective permeability barrier that protects the brain from harmful substances in the blood.

Electroencephalograph (EEG)

A tool used to measure the electrical activity of the brain.

Alpha Waves

Brain wave pattern observed in relaxed, awake state, eyes closed.

Beta Waves

active, alert consciousness.

Theta Waves

Brain wave pattern associated with deep relaxation and early stages of sleep.

Delta Waves

associated with deep sleep.

REM Sleep

Rapid Eye Movement sleep, associated with vivid dreaming and brain activity similar to waking.

Non-REM Sleep

Stages of sleep excluding REM, necessary for physical restoration.

Sleep Cycle

The progression through different stages of sleep within a given period.

Sleep Architecture

The structure and pattern of sleep cycles experienced throughout the night.

Cognitive Development

The progression of cognitive abilities as one learns and experiences the world.

Homeostasis

The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions.

Sensory Processing

The method by which the brain organizes and interprets sensory information.

Emotional Reactivity

The brain’s response to stimuli that elicits emotional reactions.