Question

What are the major parts of the brain? Mention the functions of different parts.

Answer 1

Brain:

1. Brain is the complex organ that controls the process of thinking, memory, sensory mechanism, voluntary and involuntary actions.
2. The brain along with the spinal cord extends to form the central nervous system.

Important functions of brain:

1. It helps in processing the sensory impulses.
2. It helps in regulating blood pressure and breathing mechanisms.
3. It controls the activities of the hormonal system.
4. It helps in maintaining the body balance and homeostasis.
5. It takes care of the circadian rhythm, the sleep-wake cycle of the body.

Parts of the brain:

Brain has three main parts namely, forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain.

Forebrain

1. The forebrain is also called as Prosencephalon.
2. It is the anterior part of the brain, which comprises the cerebral hemispheres, the thalamus, and the hypothalamus.
3. It also consists of two subdivisions called the telencephalon and diencephalon.
4. Along with the optic nerves and cranial nerves, the forebrain also includes the olfactory system, or sense of smell as well as the lateral and third cerebral ventricles.
5. Cerebrum is known as the largest and most developed part of the forebrain.
6. It comprises several deep grooves called the cerebral hemispheres which divide the cerebrum into the right and left halves.
7. It controls the sensory perception of light, smell, touch and sight.
8. It is also responsible for the functions of memory, intelligence, thinking, reasoning etc.
9. It is the seat of intelligence, consciousness and will power.
10. It comprises the frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal lobes.

Midbrain

1. The midbrain is also called as Mesencephalon.
2. The midbrain is the smallest region of the brain.
3. The midbrain is responsible for hearing, vision, sleep cycle, temperature regulation, alertness, etc.

Hindbrain

1. The hindbrain is also called as Rhombencephalon.
2. The hindbrain is located at the lower back part of the brain.
3. It is mainly composed of the Cerebellum, brain Stem, pons and the medulla.
4. It is located under the cerebrum.
5. It is divided into cerebellar hemispheres.
6. Its function is to coordinate muscle movements, maintain posture, and balance.
7. It acts as a relay center connecting the cerebrum and cerebellum to the spinal cord.
8. Brain stem also known as medulla oblongata is present at the posterior part of the brain.
9. It plays a vital role in controlling the involuntary actions of the viscera.
10. Involuntary actions involve movements of heat muscles, lungs and alimentary canal.