Parts & Functions of a Human Brain

The brain is an organ in the central nervous system that controls emotions, vision, hearing, sight, movement, sleep, thinking and other important functions. The three parts of the brain, the forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain, are responsible for carrying out these functions.

Cerebrum

• Found in the forebrain, the cerebrum is responsible for the coordination of speech, memory, decision-making, vision and hearing. It is divided up into the frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal lobes.

Cerebellum

• Located in the hindbrain, the cerebellum is responsible for coordinating movement, motor activities, posture and balance. It is also able to store information about physical tasks so that people can repeat them.

Limbic System

• Found in the forebrain, the limbic system is responsible for emotions and behavior in humans. It is also coordinates long-term memory, body temperature, movement, hunger, and thirst.

Brain Stem

• Located in the midbrain and hindbrain, the brain stem is responsible for functions such as breathing, blood pressure and heart beat. The brain stem makes it possible for people to be conscious, feel awake and alert and pay attention to tasks.

Neurons

• Neurons are nerve cells, found inside and outside the brain, that work with the central nervous system. Some neurons take messages from sensory receptors, such as the eyes, skin, tongue and ears, to the brain. Other neurons are responsible for taking messages from the brain to the muscles and glands.