The human brain is one of the most complex and extraordinary structures in the known universe, responsible for everything from thought and memory to emotion, creativity and consciousness itself. Despite centuries of scientific study, it continues to reveal new surprises about how it works and how it shapes who we are. Here are ten remarkable facts that highlight just how powerful, adaptable and astonishing the human brain really is.
The brain contains around 86 billion neurons
Each neuron can form thousands of connections, meaning the brain has trillions of synapses working together to process information, memories and emotions.
It uses about 20% of the body’s energy
Despite accounting for only around 2% of body weight, the brain consumes roughly a fifth of the body’s oxygen and calories, even when you are resting.
The brain is constantly rewiring itself
Thanks to a process called neuroplasticity, the brain can change its structure throughout life, forming new connections after learning, injury or experience.
Pain is felt in the brain, but the brain itself feels no pain
The brain interprets pain signals from the body, yet it has no pain receptors of its own – which is why brain surgery can sometimes be performed while a patient is awake.
Your brain can generate enough electricity to power a small light
The electrical activity of neurons produces around 20 watts of power, roughly equivalent to a dim light bulb.
Memories are not stored in one single place
Different aspects of a memory – sights, sounds, emotions – are stored across various regions of the brain, making memory a distributed and complex process.
The brain continues developing into your mid-twenties
The prefrontal cortex, which governs decision-making, impulse control and planning, is one of the last areas to fully mature.
It processes information faster than any computer we have built
Nerve impulses can travel at speeds of up to 120 metres per second, allowing the brain to respond almost instantly to changes in the environment.
Your brain can create vivid experiences without any external input
Through imagination, dreams and hallucinations, the brain is capable of producing sights, sounds and emotions that feel completely real, even when nothing is happening in the outside world.
No two human brains are exactly alike
Genetics, life experiences, learning and environment all shape the brain’s structure, meaning every person’s brain is uniquely wired.
Yet more myths busted and facts learned.
