The Brain - Module 11 - Scans & Structure

Question 1

Lesion

Answer 1

Tissue destruction

Question 2

Brain Lesion

Answer 2

Naturally or experimentally caused destruction of brain tissue

Question 3

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Answer 3

An amplified recording of the waves of electrical activity sweeping across the brain’s surface, measured by electrodes placed on the scalp

Question 4

CT (computed tomography) Scan

Answer 4

A series of x-ray photographs taken from different angles and combined by a computer into a composite representation of a slice of the brain’s structure (brain damage)

Question 5

PET (positron emission tomography) Scan

Answer 5

A visual display of brain activity that detects where a radioactive form of glucose goes while the brain performs a given task (“hot spots”)

Question 6

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)

Answer 6

A technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce computer-generated images of soft tissue (brain anatomy)

Question 7

fMRI (functional MRI)

Answer 7

A technique for revealing blood flow and therefore brain activity by comparing successive MRI scans - shows brain function and it’s structure

Question 8

Brain stem

Answer 8

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

Question 9

Medulla

Answer 9

The base of the brain stem, controls heartbeat and breathing

Question 10

Pons

Answer 10

Above medulla, helps coordinate movements

Question 11

Brain stem = Crossover

Answer 11

Where most nerves to and from each side of the brain connect with the body’s opposite side

Question 12

Thalamus (train hub)

Answer 12

Sensory control center, located on top of the brain stem, directs messages to the sensory receiving ares in the cortex and transmits replies to cerebellum and medulla

Question 13

Reticular Formation

Answer 13

A nerve network that travels through the brain stem and thalamus and plays an important role in controlling arousal - filters incoming stimuli and relays important information to other brain areas

Question 14

Cerebellum

Answer 14

The “little brain” at the rear of the brain stem, processes sensory input, coordinates movement output and balance and enables nonverbal learning/memory

Question 15

Limbic System

Answer 15

Neural system (including the hippocampus, amygdala and hypothalamus) located below the cerebral hemisphere, associated with emotions and drives

Question 16

Hippocampus

Answer 16

Creates, retrieves and processes memories

Question 17

Amygdala

Answer 17

Two lima-bean-sized neural clusters in limbic system, relays emotional information to hippocampus, processes emotional responses

Question 18

Hypothalamus

Answer 18

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