Images Dated 25th February 1998

Brain superimposed on colour X-ray of human skull

Healthy brain in skull. Coloured computer-enhanced X-ray of the human skull in side view, with a healthy brain superimposed on it. The brain fits tightly into, and is protected by, the skull. At centre left is the facial and jaw region; dental fillings are seen in some molar teeth. Most of the brain seen here is the folded cerebrum of the left hemisphere; memory and higher conscious thought processes occur in the cerebrum with coordination of voluntary body activity. The cerebellum (triangular, at ear level) is part of the hind- brain; it plays a role in maintaining muscle tone and body balance. The skull is supported by seven cervical vertebrae of the neck

© MEHAU KULYK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY