Chapter 2- Tools And Older Brain Function

Question 1

Lesion

Answer 1

Tissue destruction. A brain lesion is a naturally or experimental destruction of the brain tissue.

Question 2

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Answer 2

An amplified recording of the waves of electrical activity sweeping across the brains surface. These waves are measured by electrodes placed on the scalp.

Question 3

PET

Answer 3

A visual display of the brain activity that detects where a radioactive form of glucose goes while the brain performs a given task.

Question 4

MRI

Answer 4

A technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce computer generated images of soft tissue. MRI scans show brain anatomy.

Question 5

fMRI

Answer 5

A technique for revealing blood flow and, therefore, brain activity by comparing successive MRI scans. fMRI show brain function as well as structure.

Question 6

Brain stem

Answer 6

The oldest part and central core of the brain, beginning where the spinal cord swells as it enters the skull; the brain stem is responsible for the automatic survival functions.

Question 7

Medulla

Answer 7

The base of the brain stem; controls heartbeat and breathing.

Question 8

Thalamus

Answer 8

The brains sensory control center, located on top of the brain stem; it directs messages to the sensory receiving areas in the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla.

Question 9

Reticular formation

Answer 9

A nerve network that travels through the brain stem to the thalamus and plays an important role in controlling arousal.

Question 10

Cerebellum

Answer 10

The little brain at the rear of the brain stem; functions include processing sensory input, coordinating movement output and balance, and enabling nonverbal learning and memory.

Question 11

Limbic system

Answer 11

Neural system located below the cerebral hemispheres; associated with emotions and drives.

Question 12

Hippocampus

Answer 12

A neural center located in the limbic system; helps process explicit memories for storage.

Question 13

Amygdala

Answer 13

Two Lima-bean sized neural clusters in the limbic system; linked to emotion.

Question 14

Hypothalamus

Answer 14

A neural structure lying below the thalamus; it directs several maintenance activities (eating, drinking, body temp) helps govern the endocrine system via the pituitary gland, and is linked to emotion and reward.