Brain Structure and Function Overview

Overview of the Brain

• The foramen is the command center of the brain, involved in conscious thought.
• The brain is divided into two hemispheres by the longitudinal fissure.

Hemispheres Functionality

• Each hemisphere processes sensory information and controls movement on the opposite side of the body.
  • Right hemisphere influences the left side; left hemisphere influences the right side.

Brain Structure

• Each hemisphere has an outer layer called the cerebral cortex.
• Major lobes of the brain include:
  • Frontal Lobe: Personality, planning, emotion, problem-solving.
  • Parietal Lobe: Perception, sensations (e.g., touch), motor control.
  • Temporal Lobe: Sensory information (hearing, speech, memory).
  • Occipital Lobe: Processes visual information from the eyes.

Key Terms

• Gyri: Ridges in the cerebral cortex, resembling mountains.
• Sulci: Valleys in the cerebral cortex.
• White Matter: Inner core of the brain.
• Gray Matter: Outer layers of the brain linked to increased connections.

Brain Activity Analysis

• During brain studies, specific areas light up in response to tasks or stimuli (e.g., listening or speaking).