Responsible for rational thinking and body movements, the brain is an intricate organ that performs a myriad of functions. In this quick overview we’ll list the main parts of the brain and their functions. The human brain shares the structure of other mammals’ brain, but it is set apart by its size and complexity. A quick look at a chart with the main parts of the brain discloses four unique sections, each charged with particular functions and roles.
The cerebrum
As the largest part of the brain, the cerebrum fulfills many functions, such as thought processing. Comprising two hemisphere, the cerebrum uses axons to convey messages from the right hemisphere to the left one. This section of the brain is constituted of four different parts:
The cerebellum
Also called the little brain, the cerebellum is in charge with balance and movement. We are able to maintain our postures and move thanks to the cerebellum, which is believed to have appeared before the cerebrum. Positioned at the back of the brain, it plays a major role in precision and coordination of moves. The cerebellum is also believed to play a role in particular cognitive functions.
The limbic system
Found within the cerebrum, the limbic system is responsible with our emotions. Just like the cerebrum, it encompasses four sections:
The brain stem
In charge with life functions like breathing and blood pressure, the brain stem is also known as the simplest part of the brain. It has three parts:
Kids’ brains are different than adults’. Brain development happens during the first three years of life, with the brain tripling in weight and sets more than one thousand nerve connections. The parts of the brain and their functions are still being studied and explored by various domains. Neuro-psychology explores the connection between brain functions and behavior, while neuro-science is concerned with the nervous system and has a very broad purpose.
For more information about brain health, check out All You Need to Know about Brain Health.