Understanding the Difference between Cerebellum and Cerebrum
The human brain is an extraordinary organ that controls our every thought, action, and emotion. It is made up of several parts, including the cerebellum and cerebrum, which are frequently deemed as the most significant regions of the brain. Many people often assume that both parts perform the same functions; however, there are several differences between the cerebellum and cerebrum.
Cerebellum: The Small Brain
The cerebellum is an oval-shaped projected structure located at the back of the brain, beneath the occipital lobe of the cerebrum. It is relatively small, comprising only 10% of the brain’s total mass. Despite its small size, the cerebellum plays a critical role in the regulation of movement and balance, coordination, and posture. Damage to the cerebellum can result in various symptoms such as tremors, difficulty in walking, and loss of balance.
The cerebellum contains of 50-70 billion neurons, and its primary function is to receive input from sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain. It then uses this information to fine-tune the coordination and timing of motor movements, ensuring that they are carried out accurately and smoothly.
Cerebrum: The Big Brain
The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain, making up about 85% of its total mass. It is situated on top of the brainstem, below the skull’s parietal and frontal lobes. The cerebrum is a complex structure divided into two hemispheres – the left and right cerebral hemispheres – which are responsible for controlling different aspects of our cognitive functions.
The cerebrum’s functions include perception, thinking, and decision-making, as well as controlling movement and regulating emotions. Each hemisphere has specific regions devoted to specific tasks. The left hemisphere is responsible for language, logic, and reasoning, while the right hemisphere controls visual-spatial skills, creativity, and emotional responses.
Difference Between Cerebellum and Cerebrum
Although the cerebellum and cerebrum parts of the brain share some similarities, they are vastly different in their functions. The primary difference between these two parts of the brain is that the cerebellum controls movement and body posture, while the cerebrum is responsible for mental functions such as perception, thinking, memory, and emotions. Additionally, the cerebrum is more extensive and more complex than the cerebellum in structure and function.
In Conclusion, understanding the differences between cerebellum and cerebrum is vital in helping people understand the brain’s overall functions. While the cerebellum is responsible for regulating movements, posture, and balance, the cerebrum is responsible for mental functions such as perception, thinking, and emotions. When both of these parts of the brain work together, they help us navigate through life with ease, intellect, and grace.
Table difference between cerebellum and cerebrum
| Cerebellum | Cerebrum |
|---|---|
| Located in the back of the brainstem | Located in the front of the brainstem |
| Responsible for coordination and fine motor control | Responsible for advanced cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and problem-solving |
| Consists of two hemispheres and a central vermis | Consists of two large hemispheres |
| Divided into three lobes: anterior, posterior, and flocculonodular lobes | Divided into four lobes: frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobes |
| Processes sensory information from the body to maintain balance and posture | Processes sensory information from the environment to interpret and respond to stimuli |
| Coordinates movements and regulates muscle tone | Critical for consciousness, attention, and language processing |