In terms of volume, which animal has the largest brain?

The sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) has the largest brain of any animal in terms of volume.

Explanation:

A sperm whale’s brain weighs about 7–9 kilograms (15–20 pounds) and can have a volume of over 8,000 cubic centimeters (cc).

In comparison, the human brain weighs only about 1.3–1.5 kilograms with an average volume of 1,200–1,400 cc.

Other large animals like elephants also have big brains (about 5 kg), but still smaller in volume than the sperm whale’s.

Quick Comparison (Average Values)

• Sperm Whale – ~8,000–9,000 cc
• Elephant – ~4,000–5,000 cc
• Gorilla – ~500 cc
• Human – ~1,300–1,400 cc

Key Point:

While the sperm whale has the largest brain in size and volume, this does not mean it is the most intelligent. Intelligence is more closely related to the encephalization quotient (EQ), which compares brain size relative to body size. Humans have a very high EQ, which explains our advanced reasoning, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Final Answer: The sperm whale has the largest brain of any animal in terms of volume, but brain size alone does not determine intelligence.