fMRI scans

Question 1

what does this scan measure

Answer 1

blood flow in the brain when a person performs a task

Question 2

how does this scan measure blood flow in the brain

Answer 2

exposes the brain to multiple magnetic fields as the patients head is places inside the fMRI machine

when it spins, it gives off signals that help create images of the brain

the scanner detects different levels of hydrogen in various areas which adds detail to the image

the scanner picks up the changes in s=oxygen levels as it becomes deoxygenated because certain areas of the brain become active due to the cognitive processes and images are created which can help us see the brains structure

Question 3

how long do these scans take to create an image

Answer 3

2 hours

Question 4

how much does 1 scan cost

Answer 4

£400

Question 5

are these scans invasive or non invasive

Answer 5

non invasive

Question 6

what is a weakness of using fMRI

Answer 6

takes place in an artificial setting as participants have to lie still in a confined and noisy scanner which can be uncomfortable and unnatural which could cause participants to act or behave differently which reduces ecological validity

Question 7

what is a strength of using fMRI

Answer 7

its non invasive and doesn’t expose the brain to potentially harmful radiation so behaviour can be assessed without their physical, mental or psychological health at risk