Brain

Here are the major brain structures to identify on a model:

• Cerebral Hemispheres: The two halves of the brain, divided into left and right.

• Gyri (Gyrus) and Sulci (Sulcus): Gyri are the ridges, and sulci are the grooves on the surface of the brain, increasing surface area.

• Longitudinal Fissure: Deep groove separating the two cerebral hemispheres.

• Corpus Callosum: Large bundle of nerve fibers connecting the left and right hemispheres, facilitating communication between them.

• Choroid Plexus: Tissue in the ventricles that produces cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

• Pineal Body/Gland: Small endocrine gland producing melatonin, involved in regulating sleep cycles.

• Thalamus: Relay station for sensory information going to the cerebral cortex.

• Hypothalamus: Regulates vital functions like temperature, hunger, and thirst; connects the nervous and endocrine systems.

• Superior and Inferior Colliculi (Corpora Quadrigemina): Located in the midbrain, involved in visual and auditory processing.

• Cerebellum: Coordinates movement and balance.

• 4th Ventricle: One of the CSF-filled cavities; located between the pons and cerebellum.

• Cerebral Aqueduct: Connects the 3rd and 4th ventricles, allowing CSF flow.

• Optic Chiasma: Area where optic nerve fibers cross.

• Pons: Part of the brainstem involved in breathing and communication between different parts of the brain.

• Medulla Oblongata: Controls essential functions like heart rate and respiration.

• Olfactory Bulb: Processes smell information.

• Pituitary Gland: Known as the "master gland," it regulates various hormonal functions.