Ch 2: Brain Flashcards
the brains sensory control center, located on top of the brain stem; directs sensory messages to other regions (switchboard)
thalamus
nerve network running through the brain stem and into the thalamus; plays an important role in controlling arousal
reticular formation
the “little brain” at the rear of the brain stem; process sensory input, coordinate balance, enable nonverbal learning and memory
cerebellum
neural system including the amygdala, hypothalamus, and hippocampus; associated with emotions and drives
limbic system
2 lima bean sized neural clusters in the limbic system linked to emotions (anger and fear)
amygdala
neural structure below the thalamus; directs several maintenance activities such as eating, drinking, body temp. Helps govern endocrine system via the pituitary gland and is linked to emotion and reward
hypothalamus
neural center located in the limbic system; storage for memories of facts and events (hippo running around a camp trying to find his tent)
hippocampus
thin layer of interconnected neurons covering the cerebral hemispheres; body’s ultimate control and info processing center
cerebral cortex (FPOT)
portion of the cerebral cortex lying just behind the forehead; involved in speaking and muscle movements and in making plans and judgements
frontal lobes
portion of the cerebral cortex lying at the top of the head; receives sensory input for touch and body position
parietal lobes
portion of cerebral cortex at the back of head; visual fields
occipital
portion of cerebral cortex lying above ears; receive info from ears
temporal
cerebral cortex between front and parietal; controls voluntary movements
Motor Cortex
headband behind motor cortex; processes body touch and movement
somatosensory cortex
roughly defined other areas; rational and logical thoughts
association areas
