THE CEREBRUM
The cerebrum (seh-ree-brum) is the largest part of the brain. It is split into two halves, or hemispheres by a deep fissure. At the base of the fissure, there is a thick track of nerves so as the two hemispheres can communicate. This track of nerves is called the corpus callosum (kor-pus kal-oh-sum). Most messages to and from one side of the brain are handled by the opposite side. The outermost layer of the cerebrum is called the cerebral cortex (seh-ree-bral kor-tex)
The cerebrum is split into four different portions; or lobes. The frontal lobe, occipital lobe, temporal lobe, and parietal lobe. Learn more about those lobes on the lobe page.
The cerebrum is split into four different portions; or lobes. The frontal lobe, occipital lobe, temporal lobe, and parietal lobe. Learn more about those lobes on the lobe page.
THE CEREBELLUM
The cerebellum is a wrinkly ball of tissue connected to the brain stem and it helps coordinate movement in the eyes, ears, and muscles. Without it, you would not be able to look around, hear, or just move any of your muscles.
THE BRAINSTEM
The brainstem connects the cerebrum to the spinal cord. Not only that, but it also controls involuntary movement, such as blinking, breathing, and your heart beating, but also numerous other examples. It is also extremely important for being able to sleep.
It is made of two different parts: the medulla oblongata, and the pons.
It is made of two different parts: the medulla oblongata, and the pons.
Medulla Oblongata
The medulla oblongata is the largest part of the brainstem. The medulla oblongata has the vasomotor, vomiting, respiratory, and cardiac centers. Therefore, it deals with involuntary movement, like blinking, your heart beating, and you breathing.
Pons
Also known as pons Varolii (literally translating, from Italian, to "bridge of Varolius" after Italian anatomist and surgeon Costanzo Varolio), this part of the brainstem controls facial sensations, like pain and touch, a motor role in eyes movement, chewing, swallowing, and the secretion of saliva and tears. It also functions as a sensory role in hearing, equilibrium and taste.