What is "cerebral cortex"?

The cerebral cortex, often referred to as the "gray matter," is the outermost layer of the brain responsible for higher cognitive functions. It covers the cerebrum and consists of densely packed neurons and their associated support cells. The cerebral cortex plays a critical role in sensory perception, attention, memory, language, decision-making, and voluntary movement. It is highly convoluted, forming characteristic folds and grooves, known as gyri and sulci, respectively, which increase its surface area and accommodate a larger number of neurons. The cerebral cortex is a complex and intricate structure that contributes to our ability to think, learn, and interact with the world around us.