Brain anatomy. Coloured magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the human head from the side. The sagittal scan has halved the brain, revealing the internal anatomy. The brain's major area (across top and at the rear) is the cerebrum. This includes the folds of the outer layer (cerebral cortex) that produces memory, language and conscious movement. The brainstem (centre), at the base of the brain, runs down and connects to the spinal cord in the neck. It controls subconscious functions like breathing. The cerebellum (round area, right of the brainstem) controls balance, as well as muscle co-ordination. Skull, neck and face structures (blurred) are also seen.