Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
The midbrain is part of your central nervous system located between forebrain and hindbrain; it's involved in functions such as vision, hearing, motor control, sleep/wake cycles, arousal (alertness), and temperature regulation.
Superior Colliculi: Part of the midbrain involved in visual processing; akin to security cameras in a mall monitoring activities.
Inferior Colliculi: This part of the midbrain processes auditory information; similar to public announcement systems in a mall.
Substantia Nigra: A part of the midbrain that plays an important role in reward and movement. It's like the escalators or elevators helping customers move around efficiently.