Brain scans

Question 1

FMRI

Answer 1

Functional magnetic resonance imaging
Detects blood flow + oxygenation in brain
When area is more active = more oxygen
Produces 3D images showing parts of brain for specific mental process
Understanding localisation

Question 2

AO3 FMRI

Answer 2

+ No radiation = low risk

• Costly

Question 3

EEG

Answer 3

Electroencephalogram
Measure electrical activity using electrode cap
Record brainwave patterns
Overall account of brain activity

Search for unusual patterns- abnormality = epilepsy, tumors + sleep disorders

Question 4

AO3 EEG

Answer 4

+ Help diagnose conditions

• Cannot pinpoint exact source of neural activity

Question 5

ERP

Answer 5

Event-related potentials
Same process as EEG but introduce tasks to isolate specific neural responses
Introduce stimuli repeatedly

Question 6

AO3 ERP

Answer 6

+ Can see processing of stimulus even without reaction

• Need controlled environment

Question 7

Post-mortem examinations

Answer 7

Examination of persons brain after death
Can examine abnormalities that explain behavior

Question 8

AO3 post mortem

Answer 8

+ Brocas + Werniks

• No consent