Brain Anatomy and Functions

Overview

• The brain can be divided into three main parts:
  • Forebrain (big yellow section)
  • Midbrain (tiny pink section)
  • Hindbrain (blue section)
• Forebrain sits on top of the brainstem, which connects to the spinal cord.
• Forebrain is responsible for voluntary functions.
• Midbrain and hindbrain handle involuntary functions.

Forebrain

• Divided into two sections: Outer (Cerebrum) and Inner
• Cerebrum:
  • Largest part, responsible for thinking, learning, speech, and language.
  • Controls voluntary actions like walking, talking, and decision-making.
  • Processes sensory information (sight, sound, etc.).
  • Involved in emotions, memory, and feelings like hunger and sleepiness.
• Inner Section: Contains Thalamus, Hypothalamus, and Pituitary Gland
  • Thalamus: Inner region, processes sensory and motor signals.
  • Hypothalamus: Below the thalamus, regulates body temperature, hunger, and other homeostatic systems.
  • Pituitary Gland: Small gland regulating hormones.

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Hindbrain

• Divided into three main regions: Pons, Medulla Oblongata, and Cerebellum
• **Medulla Oblongata: **
  • Controls vital involuntary processes like heart rate, breathing, and digestion.
  • Also handles reflexes like sneezing and coughing.
• Pons:
  • Acts as a bridge between various parts of the nervous system.
• Cerebellum:
  • Maintains balance and motor memory.
  • Coordinates voluntary movements such as posture, balance, coordination, and speech.
  • Affected by alcohol, which impacts balance and motor function.

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Midbrain

• Not detailed in parts, but controls some involuntary functions.
  • Example: Pupil response to light.

Key Points to Remember:

• Forebrain: Voluntary actions, intelligence, emotions, sensory processing.
• Midbrain and Hindbrain: Involuntary actions, essential life functions.
• Cerebellum: Balance and learned motor activities.
• Medulla Oblongata: Vital involuntary processes and reflexes.