The human brain is a complex organ consisting of multiple structures. While the inside of the brain contains many of these parts, the external portion of the brain consists of only two: the cerebrum and cerebellum. The cerebrum is characterized by its wrinkly surface and left and right hemispheres, while the cerebellum is found in the back of the head beneath the cerebrum. The cerebellum itself looks like a miniature brain.
Cerebrum
The cerebrum is the largest part of the human brain. It consists of two hemispheres and is further subdivided into four lobes. The left and right hemispheres are separated by a large crack called the longitudinal fissure. They remain connected by the corpus collosum, a structure that serves to facilitate cerebral communication. The four lobes are the frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal.
Cerebellum
The cerebellum is found in the back of the brain and looks like a wrinkled ball of tissue. Its name is derived from the Latin for "little brain." The cerebellum serves to coordinate muscle movement so that motion is smooth and purposeful. It also helps to maintain balance. Alcohol intoxication impairs cerebellar function, resulting in slurred speech and clumsy movement.
Meninges
The brain's external surface is covered by three thin membranes called meninges. The outermost membrane is fibrous and tough, known as the dura mater. Directly beneath it lies the arachnoid mater. The pia mater is the innermost membrane and directly contacts the cerebrum.
References
- "Anatomy and Physiology: The Unity of Form and Function (5th Edition)"; Ken Saladin; 2010
- "Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain (3rd Edition)"; Mark Bear, Barry Connors and Michael Paradiso; 2007
- Centre for Neuroskills: Cerebellum Functions
