Pons facts for kids
The pons is a super important part of your brain! Think of it like a special bridge that helps different parts of your brain talk to each other. It's located in the back, lower part of your brain, which is called the hindbrain.
Contents
What is the Pons?
The pons is a key part of your brain's communication system. It's like a central hub that connects many different areas. The word "pons" actually means "bridge" in Latin, which is a great way to describe what it does!
Where is the Pons Located?
Your brain has many parts. The pons is found in the lower, back part of your brain, known as the hindbrain. In humans, it sits right above another brain part called the medulla oblongata. It's also located below the midbrain, which is another important section of your brain.
What Does the Pons Do?
The main job of the pons is to carry messages back and forth. It's filled with special "wires" called nerve fibres. These fibres act like tiny cables that send signals all over your brain.
Carrying Messages
The pons helps connect your cerebellum (which helps with balance and movement) to the medulla oblongata (which controls things like breathing and heart rate). It also carries signals from your cerebrum (the largest part of your brain, responsible for thinking and learning) down to the cerebellum and medulla. Plus, it sends sensory signals, like touch or temperature, up to your thalamus, which then sends them to other parts of your brain for processing.
Images for kids
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Location and topography of Pons (animation)
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Axial section of the pons, at its upper part
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Hind- and mid-brains; posterolateral view
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Median sagittal section of brain
See also
In Spanish: Puente troncoencefálico para niños
