The parts of the brain

In the brainstem the spinal cord attaches to the skull and swells forming the medulla (the controls for heartbeat and breathing). On top of the medulla is the reticular formation, which lies between humans’ ears (controls arousal). This leads into the thalamus, two egg-like structures (the “hub” of the brain/ sends information or messages to different parts of the brain). The cerebellum extends from the rear of the brainstem (enables a certain type of nonverbal learning and memory). Between the brain’s older parts and its cerebral hemispheres lies the donut-shaped limbic system. Below the Hypothalamus is the pituitary gland. The surrounding intricate covering of neural cells is the cortex (ultimate control and information-processing center).