The Brain

The oldest part and central core of the brain, begining where the spinal cord swells as it enters the skull; responsible for automatic survival functions.

• pituitary gland

• brainstem

• pineal gland

• cerebellum

The base of the brainstem; control heartbeat and breathing.

• Thalamus

• Reticular Formation

• Brain Stem

• Medulla

Area at the top of the brainstem; directs sensory messages to the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla.

• medulla

• thalamus

• reticular formation

• pituitary gland

nerve network running through the brainstem and thalamus; plays an important role in controlling arousal.

• cerebellum

• medulla

• thalamus

• reticular formation

The "little brain" at the rear of the brainstem; functions include processing sensory input and coordinating movement output and balance.

• limbic system

• amygdala

• hypothalamus

• cerebellum

Neural system (including the hippocampus, amygdala, and hyphothalamus) located below the cerebral hemispheres; associated with the emotions and drives.

• endocrine system

• hormone system

• limbic system

• emotion system

Two lima bean sized neural clusters in the limbic system; linked to emotion.

• Amygada

• Pituitary gland

• Hippocampus

• Hypothalamus

A neural structure lying bellow the thalamus; directs several maintenance activities, helps govern the endocrine system via the pituitary gland, and is linked to emotion and reward.

• Hypothalamus

• Amygdala

• Thalamus

• Limbic System

Thin Layer of interconnected neurons covering the cerebral hemispheres; the body's ultimate control and information - processing center.

• Frontal Lobes

• Cerebral Cortex

• Parietal Lobes

• Occipital Lobes

Portion of the cerebral cortex lying just behind the forehead; involved in speaking and muscle movements and in making plans and judgements.

• Parietal Lobes

• Occipital Lobes

• Frontal Lobes

• Temporal Lobes