Which part of the brain would be most affected by a severe lack of oxygen?

The frontal lobe would be most affected by a severe lack of oxygen due to its high metabolic demand and critical role in various functions. The brain, particularly the frontal lobe, requires a constant and adequate supply of oxygen to maintain its activity and perform functions such as reasoning, problem-solving, and coordination of movement.

In conditions of hypoxia or anoxia (a severe lack of oxygen), the frontal lobe is susceptible because it is involved in processes that require a lot of energy. The neurons in this part of the brain may begin to malfunction or die within minutes without an adequate oxygen supply. While other lobes, such as the occipital, parietal, and temporal, also play important roles in sensory processing, perception, and memory, the specific vulnerabilities of the frontal lobe to oxygen deprivation highlight its reliance on a steady flow of oxygen for optimal functioning. Thus, damage in this region can lead to impairments in cognitive and motor functions.