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AP Psych Unit 3B

Terms in this set (15)

lesion
tissue destruction; a brain lesion is a naturally or experimentally caused destruction of brain tissue.
(EEG) scan
an amplified recording of the waves of electrical activity that sweep across the brain's surface. These waves are measured by electrodes placed on the scalp.
(CT) Cat scan
a series of X-ray photographs taken from different angles and combined by computer into a composite representation of a slice through the body.
PET scan
visual display of brain activity that detects where a radioactive form of glucose goes while the brain performs a given task.
MRI scan
a technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce computer-generated images of soft tissue. Shows brain function
fMRI
a technique for revealing blood flow and, therefore, brain activity by comparing successive MRI scans.
brainstem
the oldest part and central core of the brain, beginning where the spinal cord swells as it enters the skull; the brainstem is responsible for automatic survival functions.
medulla
the base of the brainstem; controls heartbeat and breathing.
reticular formation
a nerve network in the brainstem that plays an important role in controlling arousal
thalamus
the brain's sensory switchboard, located on top of the brainstem; it directs messages to the sensory receiving areas in the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla.
cerebellum
the "little brain" at the rear of the brainstem; functions include processing sensory input and coordinating movement output and balance.
limbic system
doughnut- shaped neural system located below the cerebral hemispheres; associated with emotions and drives
amygdala
two lima bean- sized neural clusters in the limbic system; linked to emotion
hypothalamus
a neural structure lying below the thalamus; it directs several maintenance activities, helps govern the endocrine system via the pituitary gland, and is linked to emotion and reward.
cerebral cortex
the intricate fabric of interconnected neural cells covering the
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