Anatomy of the Brain
Why is the brain wrinkled?
The wrinkles allow more brain to fit into a smaller space. More wrinkes are associated with intelligence.
What is the thalamus' function?
To relay information from sensory receptors to the proper parts of the brain.
Where is the midbrain located?
Between the Forebrain and the Hindbrain
What do the Pons influence?
Sleeping and dreaming
What is a neurotransmitter?
It is a chemical messenger that crosses the synaptic gaps between neurons.
Name two different lobes of the brain.
Frontal Lobe, Parietal Lobe, Temporal Lobe, Occupital Lobe
Which forebrain structure converts short term memories into long term memories?
Hippocampus
What does the Midbrain process?
Visual and auditory processing
Which structure is refered to as the attention center?
Reticular Formation
What is the difference between an antagonist and an agonist?
An antagonist decreases a neurotransmitter's action. An agonist increases a neurotransmitter's action.
What is the difference between the left and right hemisphere of the brain?
The left hemisphere is associated with logic, language, and systematic thinking. The right hemisphere is associated with creative thinking and openness.
Which structure controls our "fight or flight" response?
The Amygdala
How does the Midbrain use visual and auditory processing?
it connects them to reflexes
What does the Medulla Oblingata control?
Life-sustaining functions, like breathing, heartbeat, and swallowing
What does Serotonin affect and how can we naturally increase our Seratonin levels?
It affects mood, hunger, sleep, and arousal, and is related to our self-esteem. We can get a natural increase by eating healthy foods, excersizing, sleeping well, and exposing ourselves to sunlight.
What is aphasia and what is it caused by?
Which disorders are associated with damage to the Basal Ganglia?
Huntington's Disease and Parkinson's Disease
Name a structure in the Midbrain.
Superior collicilius, Inferior colliculus
Which structure is nicknamed "little brain" and what is its function?
The Cerebellum, which controls balance and coordination
Give an example of an agonist and an antagonist.
Agonist: Glutamate
Antagonist: GABA