What is the outermost layer of the brain that contains the cortex and its connecting axons known as?

The outermost layer of the brain that contains the cortex and its connecting axons is referred to as the telencephalon. The telencephalon is part of the forebrain and encompasses structures such as the cerebral cortex, which is responsible for many higher cognitive functions, sensory processing, and voluntary motor control. Additionally, the axons connecting different regions of the cortex allow for communication between various parts of the brain, facilitating complex behaviors and thought processes.

The telencephalon develops from the anterior part of the neural tube during embryonic development and includes not just the cortex but also subcortical structures like the basal ganglia and limbic system. Its role is crucial in integrating sensory information and coordinating responses, making it a central player in understanding the biological bases of behavior.

The other options—cerebellum, cerebrum, and medulla oblongata—refer to different brain structures or regions. The cerebellum is mainly involved in motor control and coordination, the cerebrum encompasses the uppermost portions of the brain that includes both the cortex and some subcortical structures, but it does not specifically refer to the cortex alone. The medulla oblongata is part of the brainstem that controls vital autonom