Brain: Structure & Function Cont.

Pons:

Above the medulla Produces chemicals to help maintain our sleep- wake cycle. Relays info between cerebral cortex and cerebellum. Involved with facial nerves. Reticular activating system: consciousness(sleep & arousal), attention, cardio respiratory function, & movement.

Cerebellum:(behind the medulla & pons)

Composed of two halves. Controls bodily coordination, balance, and muscle tone.

Forebrain(toward top & front of brain).

Hypothalamus(base of forebrain & beneath the thalamus). Controls the endocrine system Regulates eating, drinking, sleeping, and sexual behaviors. Involved in motivation & emotional responses.

Cerebral Cortex:(Outer layer of the cerebral hemispheres) highly convoluted.

Regulates most and complex behavior. Responsible for our being able to plan, coordinate thoughts and actions, perceive visual and sound patterns, use language, and in general, to think.

Thalamus(a two- lobed structure above the top of the brain stem).

Relays incoming sensory info(except smell): transmits info to the correct regions of the cerebral cortex.

Limbic System(deep in the brain surrounding the thalamus)

Ring of structures that plays a role in learning and emotional behavior. Hippocampus: Influences learning & memory. Amygdala: Anger and aggression. Septum: Anger & fear.

Midbrain:(Between the hindbrain & forebrain)

Superior Colliculli: Vision- visual reflexes Inferior Colliculli: Hearing