There are three main structures that make up the brain. These include the cerebrum, cerebellum and the brainstem, explains the Brain Explorer site. Within each of these main structures are several smaller, but very important parts. The brain is heavily studied to gain understanding of how it works. The three main parts of the brain are responsible for different human tasks. Overall, the anatomy of the brain and its processes are quite complex.
Cerebrum
The cerebrum makes up the largest section of the brain. It is also called the forebrain. It is responsible for all cognitive and motor functions, including thought processing or walking. The cerebrum is divided into two sections called hemispheres. Connecting these two sections is the corpus callosum, or white matter of the brain. Much of the communication between the two hemispheres is conducted in the white matter. Within each hemisphere can be found the cerebral cortex and basal nuclei, which are vital components for cognitive and motor activities. Cognitive activities controlled by the cerebrum include everything dealing with thought processes, such as memory and learning.
Cerebellum
Described as a walnut, the cerebellum is found at the base of the brain. It is also referred to as the hindbrain. The primary functions of the cerebellum include motor coordination, posture and maintaining equilibrium, explains Brain Explorer. Damage done to this part of the brain can cause an individual to feel dizzy, struggle to walk in a straight line or have weakened coordination.
Brainstem
In front of the cerebrum and below the cerebellum is the brainstem. The spinal cord is connected to the brain via the brainstem. The spinal cord is an integral part of the central nervous system, which carries out sensory and motor communication between the brain and the body. Three major brain parts can be found within the brainstem. These include the pons, medulla oblongata and the midbrain. The pons is responsible for controlling movement and for assisting in sleep and arousal control. Breathing, blood circulation, muscle tone and the control over the unconscious are some of the primary functions of the medulla oblongata. Connecting the hindbrain to the forebrain is the midbrain, found within the brainstem section. Many sensory processes are fulfilled in this part of the brain.
