Anatomy of the brain

Question 1

Grey matter

Answer 1

Receives information and regulates outgoing information; outer layer known as the cerebral cortex (cortex latin for “bark”)– where the conscious mind is found

Question 2

White matter

Answer 2

Allows for communication between gray matter, the spinal cord, and the central nervous system.

Question 3

Cerebellum

Answer 3

coordinates voluntary movements, maintains balance, posture, equilibrium, unconscious motor learning (i.e. riding a bike while thinking about what you want for lunch) . New studies show it is also used in planning, remembering, and using emotions

Question 4

Cerebrum

Answer 4

Consists of two hemispheres (left/right); 85% of the brain– made up of grey matter and white matter. Responsible for temperature regulation, speech, judgement, thinking, problem solving, learning, emotions, functions related to your 5 senses

Question 5

Brainstem

Answer 5

Connects the cerebrum to the spinal cord; comprised of the midbrain, pons, and medulla
Midbrain: complex neuron structures; area that targeted by Parkinson’s Disease
Pons: tear production, chewing, blinking, facial expression
Medulla: regulates heart rhythm, breathing, blood flow; reflexes like sneezing, vomiting, swallowing

Question 6

Frontal Lobe

Answer 6

Front of the head; personality, decision-making, planning, maintaining attention, movement, rational activity, sense of self and empathy, smell identification, Broca’s area (speech ability)

Question 7

Parietal Lobe

Answer 7

Middle of the brain; identify objects, spatial awareness, interpret pain, Wernicke’s area (understand spoken language)

Question 8

Temporal Lobe

Answer 8

Side of the brain; short-term memory, speech, musical rhythm, hearing, recognizing faces

Question 9

Occipital Lobe

Answer 9

Back of the brain; responsible for vision (colours, forms, motion)– information relayed for the eyes and sent here