Final answer:
The brain consists of three main parts: the cerebrum which is responsible for higher functions and is divided into two hemispheres and four lobes, the cerebellum which coordinates muscle movements, and the brain stem which controls vital life functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The brain is an intricate organ responsible for controlling the nervous system and the body at large. It is composed of three main parts:
- Cerebrum: The largest part of the brain divided into two hemispheres and four lobes (frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital), responsible for higher brain functions such as thought, action, and language.
- Cerebellum: Located at the back of the brain, it is involved in the coordination of muscle movements and balance.
- Brain Stem: Including the medulla oblongata, the brain stem connects the brain to the spinal cord and controls vital life functions such as breathing and heart rate.
Furthermore, the cerebral cortex is the layer covering the cerebrum, and the limbic system, thalamus, and hypothalamus are integral parts of the brain, responsible for emotions, involuntary functions, and hormone control via the endocrine system respectively.
Each component of the brain has its specialized functions although they work in concert to ensure the smooth operation of bodily functions, processing of sensory information, and execution of complex tasks.