B10.4 - The Brain (Finished) Flashcards
What is the structure of the brain?
It is made of billions of neurones connected to form different regions
What do different regions of the brain do?
Carry out different functions
What does the cerebral cortex do?
It is responsible for consciousness, intelligence, memory and language
What does the cerebellum do?
The cerebellum coordinates muscular activity and balance
What does the medulla do?
The medulla controls unconscious activities like breathing and the heartbeat
What part of the brain handles consciousness, intelligence, memory and language
The cerebral cortex
What part of the brain coordinates muscular activity and balance?
The cerebellum
What part if the brain controls unconscious activities?
The medulla
What are the three main ways to research the brain?
- MRI scans
- Electrical stimulation
- Observing people with injuries
How do MRI scans help research the brain?
It takes images of the brain of living people. It can show which area is affected/stimulated to see what part of the brain seems to do what. E.g. what area when listening to music?
How is the brain researched through electrical stimulation?
If scientists can expose the brain, then electrically stimulate different parts with tiny electrodes, by observing what happens they can get an idea of what that particular part does
How do scientists find out more about the brain by studying patients?
If a small part of the brain has been damaged, the effect this has had on the patient can be observed so you can get an idea of what that part does
Where is the cerebral cortex found?
It is the crinkly region on the outside of the brain
Where is the medulla found?
It is a brain stem attached to the spinal cord
Where is the cerebellum found?
It is the lower rear section of the brain. Like a mushroom
