The Brain

Question 1

Describe the structure and function of the hypothalamus

Answer 1

• the hypothalamus is found just beneath the middle part of the brain
• it controls the homeostatic mechanisms
• monitors the blood and regulates factors such as body temperature and blood water potential
• controls much of the endocrine function of the body as it regulates the pituitary gland through hormone control

Question 2

Describe the structure and function of the cerebellum

Answer 2

• the cerebellum is underneath the cerebrum and it also has a folded cortex
• it’s important for muscle coordination, posture and coordination of balance
• receives information from various senses, retins, balance organs in the inner ear, joints and spindle fibres and sends impulses to the motor areas

Question 3

Describe the structure and function of the medulla oblongata

Answer 3

• the medulla oblongata is at the base of thr brain at the top of the spinal chord
• controls involuntary processes such as heart rate and breathing rate

Question 4

Describe the role of the brain and nervous system in the coordination of muscular movement

Answer 4

• the CNS (brain and spinal chord) receives sensory information and decides what kind of response is needed
• the conscious decision to move is initiated in the cerebellum
• neurones from the cerebellum carry impulses to the motor areas so that output to the effectors can be adjusted appropriately in these requirements

Question 5

Describe the structure and function of the cerebrum

Answer 5

• the cerebrum is the largest part of the brain
• it is divided into 2 hemispheres connected via the corpus callosum
• the cerebrum had a thin outer layer called the cerebral cortex which is highly folded
• the cerebrum is involved in vision, hearing, learning and thinking