Topic 1: Core Concepts

Question 1

Cerebrum:

Answer 1

The largest part of the brain, responsible for higher-order functions like thought, perception, and voluntary movement.

Question 2

Limbic system:

Answer 2

A group of brain structures involved in emotions, memory, and motivation.

Question 3

Brainstem:

Answer 3

The lower part of the brain, responsible for vital functions like breathing and heart rate.

Question 4

Neuron:

Answer 4

A specialized cell that transmits electrical and chemical signals in the brain.

Question 5

Synapse:

Answer 5

The junction between two neurons where signals are transmitted.

Question 6

Neurotransmitter:

Answer 6

A chemical messenger released at the synapse that influences neuronal activity.

Question 7

Neuroplasticity:

Answer 7

The brain’s ability to reorganize and adapt in response to experience.

Question 8

Dualism:

Answer 8

The philosophical view that mind and brain are separate entities.

Question 9

Monism:

Answer 9

The philosophical view that mind and brain are one and the same.

Question 10

Embodied cognition:

Answer 10

The idea that the mind is shaped by bodily experiences and interactions with the environment.

Question 11

fMRI: Functional magnetic resonance imaging

Answer 11

A neuroimaging technique that measures blood flow changes associated with brain activity.

Question 12

EEG: Electroencephalography

Answer 12

A neuroimaging technique that records electrical brain waves.

Question 13

PET: Positron emission tomography

Answer 13

A neuroimaging technique that tracks the distribution of radioactive tracers in the brain.

Question 14

Action potential:

Answer 14

A brief electrical signal that travels down the axon of a neuron.

Question 15

Amygdala:

Answer 15

A brain structure involved in fear and aggression.

Question 16

Axon:

Answer 16

The long, thin fiber that carries electrical signals away from the neuron’s cell body.

Question 17

Cerebellum:

Answer 17

A brain structure involved in coordination and balance.

Question 18

Dendrite:

Answer 18

A branched extension of a neuron that receives signals from other neurons.

Question 19

Dopamine:

Answer 19

A neurotransmitter involved in reward, motivation, and movement.

Question 20

Frontal lobe:

Answer 20

The part of the cerebrum responsible for decision-making, planning, and personality.

Question 21

GABA: gamma-aminobutyric acid

Answer 21

An inhibitory neurotransmitter that calms brain activity.

Question 22

Hippocampus:

Answer 22

A brain structure involved in memory formation.

Question 23

Occipital lobe:

Answer 23

The part of the cerebrum responsible for vision.

Question 24

Parietal lobe:

Answer 24

The part of the cerebrum responsible for sensory processing, spatial awareness, and navigation.

Question 25

Serotonin:

Answer 25

A neurotransmitter involved in mood, sleep, and appetite regulation.

Question 26

Temporal lobe:

Answer 26

The part of the cerebrum responsible for hearing, memory, and language comprehension.