Question

What are the major parts of the brain? Mention the functions of different parts.

NCERT Class X
Science - Exemplar Problems

Chapter_Control and Coordination

Answer 1

cerebrum: seat of mental abilities, controls thinking, memory, reasoning, perception, emotion and speech
diencephalon: it acts as relay centre for sensory impulses and reflects centre for muscular activities. it is the centre for motions and centre for water balance, blood pressure, body temperature, sleep and hunger
mid brain: it relays motor impulses from the cerebral cortex to the spinal cord and relay sensory impulses from the spinal cord to the thalamus, reflex for sight 
cerebellum: maintains posture, equilibrium and muscle tone and coordinates voluntary movements initiated by cerebrum
medulla oblangata: centre for cardiac, respiratory and vasometer activities

Answer 2

Answer:

The brain is covered by a three layered system of membranes; called meninges. Cerebrospinal fluid is filled between the meninges. The CSF provides cushion to the brain against mechanical shocks.  The brain is located inside the skull for maximum protection. The human brain can be divided into three regions, viz. forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain.

Some main structures of the human brain are explained below.

Cerebrum: The cerebrum is the largest part in the human brain. It is divided into two hemispheres; called cerebral hemispheres.

Functions of cerebrum:

The cerebrum controls the voluntary motor actions.

It is the site of sensory perceptions; like tactile and auditory perceptions.

It is the seat of learning and memory.

Hypothalamus: The hypothalamus lies at the base of the cerebrum. It controls sleep and wake cycle (circadian rhythm) of the body. It also controls the urges for eating and drinking.

Cerebellum: Cerebellum lies below the cerebrum and at the back of the whole structure. It coordinates the motor functions. When you are riding your bicycle; the perfect coordination between your pedaling and steering control is achieved by the cerebellum.

Medulla: Medulla forms the brain stem; along with the pons. It lies at the base of the brain and continues into the spinal cord. Medulla controls various involuntary functions; like hear beat, respiration, etc.