Structure and function of the brain revision flashcards. OCR A: A level biology revision notes. Module 5: Communication, Homeostasis and Energy. A* biology student's notes. Summary of key content to be memorised. Process that needs to be memorised from specification.
Structure & Function of The Brain: Structure &
Function of
The Brain.
The Cerebrum:
The largest part of the human brain.
Responsible for the elements of the nervous system associated with
being human.
E.g. Conscious thought, imagination, intelligence, factual memory &
reasoning.
It is divided into two hemispheres.
The Cerebellum:
A folded surface much smaller than the cerebrum.
Contains over half the nerve cells in the brain.
Responsible for coordination, balance, posture, eye movement & fine
movement.
It processes sensory information from the retina, the balance organs of
the ears & the joints.
This control often requires “learning” but once it’s “learnt” its
programmed.
The Medulla Oblongata:
Forms a link between the brain & spinal cord.
Controls non-skeletal muscles.
Coordinates & controls involuntary movements such as breathing,
heartbeat & movements in the wall of the alimentary canal.
Regulating centres for many vital processes are found in the medulla.
The Hypothalamus:
Main control region for the autonomic nervous system – one centre for
parasympathetic & one for sympathetic.
Receives sensory input from temperature receptors & osmoreceptors.
Regulates the pituitary gland.
Controls sleeping, feeding & aggression.
The Pituitary Gland:
Posterior lobe is linked to the hypothalamus
Anterior pituitary produces 6 hormones, e.g. FSH, growth hormone etc.
Posterior pituitary stores & releases hormones produced by the
hypothalamus, e.g. ADH.
The Corpus Callosum:
Connects the two hemispheres of the cerebrum.
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