The human brain is the computer for the body. It is responsible for every function and movement, from breathing to scratching an itch on the nose. The brain can be labeled based on anatomy or function. In dealing with the anatomy of the brain, there are three main parts that work together to control all the functions of the body.
Cerebrum
The cerebrum is the largest portion of the brain or the upper brain. Kidshealth.org states that 85 percent of the brain is made up of the cerebrum. The cerebrum has a wrinkled gray portion on the outside called the cortex and an inner core called white matter. There is a right and left half, each containing similar lobes. The frontal lobe is located just under the forehead and stops at the top of the head. The frontal lobe is responsible for memory, higher thought such as empathy and altruism, and motor skills controlling movement, according to the Center for Neuro Skills(CNS). The parietal lobe starts just behind the frontal lobe and extends two-thirds of the way back into the head. The parietal lobe is responsible for the sensations of touch, hot and cold as well as balance. The occipital lobe makes up the rest of the back of the brain. The occipital lobe is in control of vision and interpretation of vision. The last part of the cortex is the temporal lobes located under the temples and over the ears. This part of the brain is responsible for hearing and some visual perceptions.
Cerebellum
Below the cerebrum's occipital lobe is the cerebellum or literally translated, "little brain." Kidshealth.org states the cerebellum is only one-eighth of the size of the cerebrum. The cerebellum is responsible for coordination of all voluntary movements and balance. The Center for Neuro Skills states that dysfunction in the cerebellum can lead to loss of the ability to walk, dizziness and difficulty with clear speech.
Brain Stem
The brain stem is located in the lower middle portion of the brain and has the most protection. The most important autonomic (automatic) functions happen here. The brain stem is responsible for controlling breathing, heart rate, blood pressure and digestion. Certain parts of the brain stem are responsible for keeping the brain and body alert and awake.
Additionally the brain stem helps to connect the cerebrum to the cerebellum and connects both of them to the spinal cord. All messages from the brain to the body pass through the brain stem.
References
- Kids Health: Brain Functions and parts
- The Center for Neuro Skills: Brain Functions
- "Selected Topics from Basic Sciences to Clinical Competency 4th edition;" Nikita Vizniak, BSc, DC; 2003.
