Frontal lobe

Definition

The frontal lobe is the part of the brain located at the front of each cerebral hemisphere. It is responsible for higher cognitive functions, including decision-making, problem-solving, and controlling behavior and emotions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The frontal lobe contains the primary motor cortex, which is essential for voluntary movement.
2. It plays a key role in executive functions such as planning, reasoning, and judgment.
3. Damage to the frontal lobe can result in changes to personality and social behavior.
4. The frontal lobe is involved in speech production through Broca's area.
5. It helps regulate attention and manage complex processes like multitasking.

Review Questions

• What major cognitive functions are associated with the frontal lobe?
• How does damage to the frontal lobe typically manifest in terms of behavior?
• Which specific part of the frontal lobe is crucial for speech production?

Related terms

Parietal Lobe: Located behind the frontal lobe, it processes sensory information such as touch, temperature, and pain.

Occipital Lobe: Located at the back of the brain, it is primarily responsible for visual processing.

Temporal Lobe: Located beneath the lateral fissure on both cerebral hemispheres, it is involved in processing auditory information and memory.