Which part of the brain is primarily responsible for thought and memory?

The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain and is primarily responsible for higher brain functions, including thought processes and memory. It is divided into two hemispheres and is made up of various areas responsible for processing different types of information, such as sensory input, language, reasoning, and long-term memory storage. The cerebral cortex, the outer layer of the cerebrum, plays a crucial role in complex functions such as thinking, planning, and decision-making, solidifying its importance in cognitive tasks.

The cerebellum mainly coordinates voluntary movements and balance but is not primarily involved in thought and memory. The brainstem controls basic life functions, such as breathing and heart rate, and does not play a direct role in cognitive processes. The limbic system is integral to emotions and certain types of memory, particularly those related to emotional experiences, but it does not encompass all aspects of thought and memory as broadly as the cerebrum does.