Cortex

Cortex is the outer layer of the brain. The human brain cortex is divided into four lobes: the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, and occipital lobe. Each of these lobes is responsible for different functions.

Anatomy of the Cortex

The cortex is the largest part of the human brain, associated with higher brain function such as thought and action. The cerebral cortex is divided into four sections, called "lobes": the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, and occipital lobe.

Frontal Lobe

Located at the front of the brain, the frontal lobe is responsible for higher level cognitive functions and control of voluntary movement or activity.

Parietal Lobe

The parietal lobe is located in the middle section of the brain and is associated with processing tactile sensory information such as pressure, touch, and pain.

Temporal Lobe

Situated beneath the lateral fissure on both cerebral hemispheres of the mammalian brain, the temporal lobe plays an important role in processing affect/emotions, language, and certain aspects of visual perception.

Occipital Lobe

The occipital lobe is located at the back portion of the brain and is associated with interpreting visual stimuli and information.

Functions of the Cortex

The cortex plays a key role in memory, attention, perceptual awareness, thought, language, and consciousness. It is divided into two main types: sensory areas and motor areas. The sensory areas are the areas that receive and process information from the senses. The motor areas control the execution of voluntary movements.

Disorders of the Cortex

Damage to the cortex can lead to a number of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy. Treatment for these disorders can involve medication, surgery, and physical therapy.

See Also

• Brain
• Neurology
• Neuroscience