Functions of the Cerebral Cortex 1. Interprets sensory impulses (including auditory, visual, and olfactory), controls voluntary and skilled skeletal muscle, functions in intellectual and emotional processing. 2. For most people, the left hemisphere is dominant and is specialized for language and mathematical skills. 3. The right hemisphere is more concerned with visual-spatial skills and creative endeavors. 4. Right hemisphere controls the left side of the body (motor control) and the left hemisphere controls the right side

Sensory & Motor Areas of the Cerebral Cortex

Cerebral Hemispheres 1. Connected by a bridge of white matter called the corpus callosum 2. Basal Nuclei- masses of gray matter that integrate motor commands 3. Limbic System- connects the cerebral cortex and the temporal lobes with the thalamus and hypothalamus 4. Stimulation of the limbic system causes you to experience rage, pain, pleasure, or sorrow 5. Limbic system is also involved in memory and learning.

Diencephalon 1. Consists of the thalamus, hypothalamus, epithalamus and encloses the third ventricle 2. Thalamus-Relay station for sensory and motor impulses to and from the cerebrum. 3. Hypothalamus-Regulates the hormonal output of the pituitary gland; it also regulates body temperature, food intake, water balance, and thirst 4. Epithalamus- contains the pineal gland; includes the choroid plexus which forms CSF 5. Links the nervous system with the endocrine system 6. Contains the pineal gland, which secretes the hormone melatonin and regulates our body’s daily rhythms

Cerebellum 1. Primarily composed of white matter, which has a treelike pattern 2. Receives sensory input from the eyes, ears, joints, and muscles about the present position of body parts 3. Receives motor output from the cerebral cortex about where body parts should be located 4. Maintains posture and balance 5. Ensures that all muscles work together to produce smooth, coordinated voluntary movements 6. Assists the learning of new motor skills

The Brain Stem 1. Contains the midbrain, the pons, and the medulla oblongata 2. Midbrain- acts as a relay station for tracts passing between the cerebrum and spinal cord or cerebellum 3. Pons- helps regulate the breathing rate and has reflex centers concerned with head movements in response to visual and auditory stimuli. 4. Medulla oblongata- contains reflex centers that regulate breathing, heartbeat, and vasoconstriction as well as vomiting, coughing, sneezing, hiccuping, and swallowing

What Protects the Brain? 1. The brain is protected by bone, meninges, cerebrospinal fluid, and the blood-brain barrier. 2. Blood-brain barrier- keep blood products separate from neurons. Formed from tight capillary walls and ependymal cells that form a tight membrane around capillaries.