The 4 Principal Parts of the Brain
Brain Stem, Diencephalon, Cerebrum, Cerebellum
3 Layers of Meninges
Dura Mater (exterior), Arachnoid Mater (middle layer), Pia Mater (interior)
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Fluid that circulates in the ventricles of the brain to reduce friction and prevent injury
Ventricles
Interconnected cavities in the brain where CSF circulates
Circle of Willis
The group of blood vessels on the underside of the brain that provides blood, oxygen, and nutrients
3 Parts of the Brain Stem
Medulla Oblongata, Pons, Midbrain
Medulla Oblongata
Part of the brain stem where the cardiovascular center is located; it also regulates breathing
Pons
The "Bridge" of the brain stem; it helps the medulla oblongata regulate breathing
Midbrain
The part of the brain stem that connects the spinal cord to the thalamus
2 Parts of the Diencephalon
Thalamus & Hypothalamus
Thalamus
Part of the Diencephalon that acts as a relay station for sensory impulses
Hypothalamus
Part of the Diencephalon that controls body temperature, regulates food & fluid intake, maintains consciousness and sleep patterns, and controls the release of hormones
Cerebrum
Forms the majority of the brain surface; composed of gray matter
Gyri
Name for the various folds that form in the brain's cerebral cortex
Fissure
A deep groove found between gyri of the brain
Longitudinal Fissure
A deep groove that separates the RIGHT & LEFT hemispheres of the brain
Sulcus
Name for the shallow grooves in the cerebral cortex
Central Sulcus
Structure that Separates the frontal lobe from the parietal lobe of the brain
Frontal Lobe
Part of the cerebrum in the FRONT of the brain; controls personality
Parietal Lobe(s)
Lobe(s) of the brain found on the superior part of the cerebrum
Temporal Lobe(s)
Lobe(s) of the brain found on the lateral part of the cerebrum
Occipital Lobe
Lobe of the brain found on the posterior part of the cerebrum; the visual cortex is located here
Cerebellum
Part of the brain that controls balance & coordination
Neurotransmitters
Biochemical substances that are released from the synaptic end bulbs of a neuron to send information between the brain, nerves, and body tissues