LCT6: Mapping the Brain

Question 1

Three methods of studying the brain

Answer 1

1) EEG
2) Brain imaging - MRI, PET, fMRI
3) TMS

Question 2

EEG

Answer 2

(electrocardiogram) - records electrical activity in the brain
(pro: easiest method to administer; con: only gives rough estimate of brain activity)

Question 3

MRI

Answer 3

(magnetic resonance imaging) - most powerful imaging technique, can produce very detailed pictures of the structures of the brain

Question 4

PET

Answer 4

(position emission tomography) - changes in blood flow and metabolic activity shows what areas are active, focuses on active breakdown of glucose in the brain

Question 5

fMRI

Answer 5

(functional magnetic resonance imaging) - oxygen levels show what areas are active, brain uses more oxygen where it is more active

Question 6

TMS

Answer 6

(transcranial magnetic stimulation) - briefly disrupting brain activity, non-invasive way to look at brain