How does the brain work?
The brain controls the actions of the body and allows us to think, learn, and remember. The brain has three main sections: the cerebral hemispheres, cerebellum, and brain stem. There are left and right cerebral hemispheres. The cerebral hemispheres are divided into sections called lobes. Each section of the brain has special jobs to do and sections of the brain also work together. The left cerebral hemisphere controls the right side of the body and is usually responsible for speech. The right cerebral hemisphere controls the left side of the body and is usually responsible for creative thinking.
Protection and Oxygen for the Brain
The brain controls many important functions. It needs good protection and oxygen. The brain is protected and receives oxygen in the following ways:
- Skull:
- A hard bone that surrounds the brain tissue.
- Dura:
- A tough covering around the brain tissue and the spinal cord.
- Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) or Spinal Fluid:
- Fluid that flows through the ventricles and around the brain and spinal cord. The ventricles are spaces inside the brain. The cerebrospinal fluid acts like a “shock absorber” for the brain.
- Blood:
- Provides oxygen and food for the brain.
