The term "cortex" refers to the outer layer of an organ or structure in the body, most commonly associated with the brain. In the context of the brain, the cerebral cortex is responsible for many higher-level functions, including thought, perception, and decision-making. It is divided into different regions that control various activities, such as movement and sensory processing. In addition to the brain, the term "cortex" can also apply to other organs, such as the adrenal cortex, which produces hormones that regulate metabolism and stress responses. The cortex in plants refers to the layer of tissue between the outer epidermis and the inner vascular tissues, playing a role in storage and transport.