Brain Anatomy

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to brain anatomy.

Cerebrum

The largest region of the brain, responsible for higher brain functions such as language, logic, reasoning, and creativity.

Cerebellum

The second largest brain region, containing 50% of the brain's neurons, and responsible for motor functions like balance and posture.

Brainstem

The part of the brain connecting to the spinal cord, responsible for basic survival functions like heart rate and breathing.

Gyrus

A thick fold of tissue on the surface of the brain.

Sulcus

A shallow groove on the surface of the brain.

Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB)

A protective barrier that regulates what substances can enter the brain from the bloodstream.

Thalamus

Part of the diencephalon that relays sensory information to the cerebral cortex.

Hypothalamus

A control center for body temperature, hunger, thirst, and hormone production.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, providing buoyancy, protection, and chemical stability.

Limbic System

A group of structures involved in emotion, memory, and behavior.

Pons

A part of the brainstem that relays signals between the cerebellum and other parts of the brain.

Medulla Oblongata

The part of the brain that controls autonomic functions such as breathing and heart rate.

Cortex

The outer layer of the brain consisting of gray matter responsible for processing information.

Basal Nuclei

Clusters of gray matter within the brain involved in voluntary motor control.

Fissure

A deep groove in the brain's surface.

Diencephalon

The region of the brain that includes the thalamus, hypothalamus, and epithalamus.

Arbor Vitae

The tree-like structure of white matter found in the cerebellum.

Ventricular System

A system of cavities in the brain filled with cerebrospinal fluid.

Gyri and Sulci

Gyri are the bumps and sulci are the grooves on the surface of the brain, increasing surface area.

Cerebral Hemispheres

The two halves of the cerebrum, each divided into four lobes.