Brain Anatomy Flashcards

Study Notes

Brain Structures and Functions

Parietal Lobe: Located at the top of the brain, responsible for processing sensory information such as touch, temperature, and pain.
Occipital Lobe: Positioned at the back of the brain, primarily involved in visual processing and interpretation.
Temporal Lobe: Found on the sides of the brain, associated with auditory processing, memory, and emotional responses.
Cerebellum: Located under the cerebrum, plays a crucial role in motor control, coordination, and balance.
Frontal Lobe: Situated at the front of the brain, responsible for decision-making, problem-solving, planning, and controlling behavior.

Major Brain Divisions

Cerebrum: The largest part of the brain, it encompasses the four lobes and is involved in higher brain functions including thought and action.
Corpus Callosum: A thick band of nerve fibers that connects the left and right hemispheres, enabling communication between both sides of the brain.
Thalamus: Located above the brainstem, it acts as a relay station for sensory information, directing it to the appropriate areas of the cerebrum.

Brainstem Components

Medulla Oblongata: The lowest part of the brainstem, it controls autonomic functions like breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Pons: Located above the medulla, it helps regulate sleep, respiration, swallowing, and relays messages between different parts of the brain.
Midbrain: Situated above the pons, it plays a role in vision, hearing, motor control, and the regulation of sleep and wakefulness.

Endocrine Components

Pituitary Gland: Often termed the "master gland," it produces hormones that regulate bodily functions and affect other glands.
Hypothalamus: A small region located below the thalamus, it maintains homeostasis by regulating temperature, hunger, thirst, and circadian rhythms.

Description

Test your knowledge of brain anatomy with these flashcards. Each card highlights specific parts of the brain, like the parietal lobe and cerebellum, enabling you to recall their definitions and functions. Perfect for students studying neuroscience or psychology.