4 of 5

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

structure. The brain stem is divided into three parts. The medulla oblongata is the lower portion and is involved in autonomic functions such as heart rate, respiration, blood pressure, swallowing, vomiting, and defecation. The midbrain, also known as the mesencephalon, is the middle portion of the stem and is closely associated with the motor system pathways. Components of the midbrain include the substantia nigra, cerebral aqueduct, and red nucleus. The pons is the upper part of the brain stem where the cerebellum is attached and relays information between the cerebellum and cerebrum. The pons has also been associated with the control of arousal and aids in respiratory control.

The frontal lobe of the cerebrum is, as the name implies, the front part of the brain. The frontal lobe contains the primary motor cortex, which includes control of the voluntary movements of specific body parts. This portion of the brain has been associated with impulse control, judgment, problem solving, planning, forethought, and cognitive maturity among other executive functions, including the consequences of social or sexual behavior.

The temporal lobe is beneath the frontal lobe and above the cerebellum, folding out around the sides of the brain in the temple region and extending posterior to beneath the occipital lobe. The temporal lobe contains the primary auditory cortex, which processes auditory input and is involved in the semantics of both speech and vision. This lobe included the hippocampus, which is involved in memory formation.

The parietal lobe is the top and posterior portion of the brain folding down along the sides to meet the temporal lobe behind the frontal lobe and above the occipital lobe. This lobe is involved in sensory integration, including hand-eye coordination. The occipital lobe is the smallest lobe and located at the very back of the brain. It is the visual processing center and contains most of the human visual cortex.

Learn more about this author, Alicia M Prater PhD.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about The anatomy of the brain?
We want to hear your view. Write now!