Brain Flashcards
What is the function of the brain?
The brain processes information from receptor cells about changes in the internal and external environment and produces a coordinated response.
Why does a single brain ensure rapid neuronal communication?
Having a central control centre means that neuronal communication is much faster than if control centres for different functions were spread around the body.
What is the structure of the brain?
An adult brain contains approximately 86 billion neurones, protected by the skull and membranes.
What are the five main areas of the brain?
- Cerebrum - controls complex behaviour such as learning and memory.
- Cerebellum - controls posture and balance.
- Medulla - controls automatic actions like heart rate.
- Hypothalamus - regulates temperature and water balance.
- Pituitary gland - stores and releases hormones.
How can you investigate brain function?
Scientists use various methods including studying stroke victims, placing electrodes in brains, CT scans, and MRI scans to understand brain functions.
What is a disadvantage of using CT scans to study brain function?
CT scans cannot be used regularly due to the increased risk of cancer from X-ray radiation.
What is functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)?
fMRI produces real-time images showing areas of the brain with increased blood flow during specific activities.
What difficulties exist when investigating brain function?
- Patients must consent to share medical information.
- Many case studies are needed for reliable conclusions.
- Several brain areas may be involved in a specific function.
- Ethical concerns regarding animal testing.
What did Phineas Gage’s accident contribute to neurology?
It provided evidence that brain damage could alter personality.
What are the four main lobes of the brain?
Frontal lobe, Parietal lobe, Temporal lobe, Occipital lobe
Which lobe is primarily responsible for decision making and problem solving?
Frontal lobe
Fill in the blank: The __________ lobe is located at the back of the brain and is responsible for visual processing.
Occipital
Which lobe is located at the top of the brain?
Parietal lobe
Multiple Choice: Which lobe is involved in the processing of touch and temperature? A) Frontal B) Parietal C) Temporal D) Occipital
B) Parietal
Fill in the blank: The __________ lobe plays a key role in hearing and language.
Temporal
Which lobe is responsible for integrating sensory information?
Parietal lobe
What is the location of the occipital lobe?
At the back of the brain
True or False: The frontal lobe is the largest lobe in the brain.
True
Fill in the blank: The __________ lobe is located beneath the lateral fissure.
Temporal
Which lobe is associated with spatial awareness?
Parietal lobe
Which lobe is involved in emotional regulation?
Frontal lobe
What lobe is located directly behind the frontal lobe?
Parietal lobe
Role of frontal lobe?
Cognitive functions such as learning, decision making, planning , reasoning, emotion regulation
Role of parietal lobe?
Controls orientation, movement, spatial awareness, touch, pain, recognition, memory
Role of occipital lobe ?
Processes visual information such as shapes and colours
Role of temporal lobe?
Processes auditory information such as speech and language and controls long term memory