The Brain

Studying the Brain Three different methods to view Brain –MRI –fMRI –PET

The Brain MRI- passes non-harmful radio frequencies through the brain. Measures how signals interact with brain cells and transforms this interaction into a detailed image. Used to study structure of the brain

The Brain fMRI- measures the activity of specific neurons that are functioning during cognitive tasks. Used to study the function of the brain

The Brain PET- injects a slightly radioactive solution into the blood and measures the amount of radiation absorbed by brain cells Used to study function of neurons

The Brain Nervous systems –Two main nervous systems Central Nervous System (CNS) Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Nervous System Central Nervous System –Made up of the brain and the spinal cord Peripheral Nervous System –Contains all nerves that extend from the spinal cord and carries messages to and from various muscles, glands, and sense organs located throughout the body

Nervous System PNS Two subdivisions –Somatic Nervous System Nerves that connect to either sensory receptors or to muscles that you can move voluntarily Afferent and Efferent

Nervous System Autonomic Nervous System –Regulates heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, digestion, hormone secretion, and other functions. –Functions without conscious effort –Two subdivisions

Nervous System Sympathetic Division –Triggered by threatening or challenging physical or psychological stimuli –Prepares the body for action Parasympathetic division –Returns the body to a calmer, more relaxed state –Digestion

The Brain Major parts of the brain –Forebrain –Midbrain –Hindbrain

The Brain Forebrain Largest part of the brain Right and left hemispheres Responsible for many functions, including learning, speaking, emotion, and voluntary movements

The Brain Midbrain –Visual and auditory reflexes –Reticular Formation Alerts the forebrain of incoming information

The Brain Hindbrain –Three main structures Pons –Interconnects messages from the spinal cord to the brain –Produces chemicals involved in sleep

The Brain Hindbrain –Medulla Controls vital reflexes, such as respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure –Cerebellum Coordinates movements, but does not initiate voluntary movements Timed motor responses