Cortical homunculus
The cortical homunculus is a visual representation illustrating how different parts of the brain correspond to sensation and movement in different body areas. It shows that regions responsible for body parts are not proportional to their size but rather to their sensitivity and motor control needs. For example, areas like the hands and face occupy larger spaces compared to the back, reflecting their finer sensory and motor functions. This model helps us understand the organization of the brain and how it processes sensory information and controls movement throughout the body.
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The cortical homunculus is a visual representation of the body's sensory and motor functions mapped onto the brain's surface, particularly the cerebral cortex. It shows how different areas of the brain correspond to specific body parts. For instance, areas controlling the hands and face are disproportionately large, reflecting their greater sensory and motor complexity. This mapping helps us understand how the brain processes movements and sensations, illustrating the brain's organization and its relationship to physical functions. Essentially, it highlights which brain regions are responsible for feeling and moving different parts of our body.