Chapter 6 The Nervous System 213
Figure 6.13 Functions of the Brain
Part of Brain Primary Functions
Cerebral Lobes
Frontal lobe memory, intelligence, behavior, emotions, motor function, smell
Parietal lobe somatic sensations (pain, touch, hot/cold), speech
Occipital lobe vision, speech
Temporal lobe hearing, smell, memory, speech
Diencephalon
Thalamus relays sensory impulses up to the sensory cortex
Hypothalamus autonomic center regulating metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure, thirst, hunger,
energy level, and body temperature
Epithalamus regulates hormones secreted by pineal gland
Brain Stem
Midbrain relays sensory and motor impulses
Pons assists with regulation of breathing
Medulla oblongata regulates heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing, and controls the refl exes of
coughing, sneezing, and vomiting
Reticular formation regulates waking from slumber and heightened states of awareness
Cerebellum coordinates body movements and balance
Skull
Dura mater
Arachnoid mater
Pia mater
Blood vessel
Subarachnoid space
Figure 6.14 The three meninges (the protective linings of the brain and spinal cord) include the double-layered
dura mater, the arachnoid mater, and the pia mater. How do each of the meninges contribute to the protection of
the brain and spinal cord?