Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 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.
Related terms
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.