11. Structures of Base of Brain
The base of the brain is dominated by the brainstem, a crucial relay connecting to the spinal cord, comprising the Midbrain, Pons, and Medulla Oblongata (controlling vital functions like breathing, heart rate). Also at the base are the Cerebellum (coordinating movement/balance) and deep structures like the Thalamus (sensory relay) and Hypothalamus (hormones, hunger, thirst, temperature), forming the brain's survival and connection center-PKK