Parts of the Brain

An almond-shape set of neurons located deep in the brain's medial temporal lobe. Shown to play a key role in the processsing of emotions, it forms part of the limbic system.

• Hippocampus

• Thalamus

• Amygdala

• Corpus Callosum

Controls the flow of messages between the brain and the rest of the body, and it also controls basic body functions such as breathing, swallowing, heart rate, blood pressure, consciousness, and whether one is awake or sleepy. Consists of the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.

• Frontal Lobe

• Brain Stem

• Cerebellum

• Occipital Lobe

Brain structure involved in coordination, balance, posture, and smooth motor movements. It also has a role in memory, cognition, and emotion.

• Cerebellum

• Brain Stem

• Occipital Lobe

• Temporal Lobe

A large fiber bundle that connects the left and right hemispheres, facilitating communication between them.

• Corpus Callosum

• Amygdala

• Thalamus

• Hypothalamus

This lobe contains the primary motor cortex. It is also thought to be the center of executive functions and an important area for memory, learning, and cognition, among other functions.

• Frontal Lobe

• Parietal Lobe

• Temporal Lobe

• Occipital Lobe

Structure in temporal lobe that has many functions but is especially recognized for its role in memory consolidation.

• Amygdala

• Corpus Callosum

• Thalamus

• Hippocampus

Lies just below the thalamus. Is crucial in the maintenance of homeostasis, as well as reproductive functions, fight-or-flight reactions, feeding, and sleep.

• Hypothalamus

• Cerebellum

• Hippocampus

• Thalamus

The lobe that makes up the rearmost area of the brain. The primary visual cortex is located here and thus is considered the visual center of the brain.

• Frontal Lobe

• Parietal Lobe

• Occipital Lobe

• Temporal Lobe

This lobe contains the primary somatosensory cortex. Thus, it is essential for proper sensation and it is also thought to be important in attention, spatial orientation, and language, along with other functions.

• Frontal Lobe

• Parietal Lobe

• Occiptal Lobe

• Temporal Lobe

Produces melatonin, a serotonin-derived hormone which modulates sleep patterns in both circadian and seasonal cycles

• Thalamus

• Pineal Gland

• Thalamus

• Hippocampus