Methods for investigating brain function

Question 1

Scanning techniques

Answer 1

• electroencephalography (EEG)
• computed axial tomography (CAT) scan
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI)
• positron emission tomography (PET) scan

Question 2

electroencephalography (EEG)

Answer 2

• scanning technique
  which can investigate the whole brain without being invasive via
  recording brain waves.
• can indicate a problem (ie epilepsy or tumour).
• cannot provide information from deep within brain or identify part of brain

Question 3

computed axial tomography (CAT) scan

Answer 3

• still picture
• An X-ray sends narrow
  beams through head and scans 180 degrees. This produces cross sectional image of brain (can be seen at any level).
• It also aids in detection of tumors and strokes

Question 4

magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Answer 4

form pictures of the anatomy and the physiological processes of the body

Question 5

functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI)

Answer 5

• dynamic pictures

- measure activity in brain where neurons are consuming oxygen

Question 6

positron emission tomography (PET) scan

Answer 6

• analyse glucose consumption in the
  brain.
• It can identify abnormalities by comparing results with a healthy person.

Question 7

case study – Phineas Gage

Answer 7

Phineas P. Gage was an American railroad construction foreman who is most remembered for his survival of an accident in which a large iron rod was driven completely through his head, destroying much of his brain’s left frontal lobe, and for that injury’s reported effects on his personality and behaviour over the remaining 12 years of his life.