Understanding Brain Structure and Function

The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and the spinal cord. Peripheral neurons

connect to and from the CNS. Reflexes operate without the conscious part of the brain.

Major Brain Structures and Functions 🧩 Cerebral cortex: the highly folded outer layer responsible

for language, memory, and consciousness. Cerebellum: controls balance and coordinates

movements. Medulla: regulates heart rate and breathing. Challenges in Studying the Brain 🔬

Physical protection – the skull makes direct access difficult. Complex architecture – intricate structures

complicate mapping functions to regions. Delicacy – the tissue is easily damaged, limiting invasive

experimentation. Methods for Investigating Brain Function 🧪 Lesion studies – examine patients