Fascinating Facts About the Brain and Neurons
The human brain is one of the most complex and fascinating organs in the body. It controls everything we do, from thinking and moving to feeling and remembering. Central to its function are neurons , the brain’s communication specialists. Together, the brain and neurons form the basis of human intelligence, emotion, and behavior. 1. The Brain: A Supercomputer in Your Head • Size and Weight : The human brain weighs about 3 pounds and makes up roughly 2% of body weight , yet it uses 20% of the body’s energy . • Billions of Neurons : The brain contains approximately 86 billion neurons , each forming thousands of connections, creating an intricate network of communication. • Speed of Thought : Signals in the brain travel at speeds of up to 268 miles per hour , faster than most race cars! • Plasticity : The brain is highly adaptable. It can rewire itself, forming new connections even in adulthood, a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity . • Oxygen Hungry : The b...