Ways Of Studying The Brain

Question 1

What is temporal resolution

Answer 1

Accuracy of scanner in relation of time or how quickly scanner can detect changes in brain activity

Question 2

What is spatial resolution

Answer 2

Smallest feature that a scanner can detect more means can distinguish between different brain regions with Greater accuracy

Question 3

What are the four ways of studying the brain?

Answer 3

fMRI
EEG
ERP
Post mortem

Question 4

What do fMRIs measure

Answer 4

• changes in blood oxygenation in the brain when a person performs specific task - works on assumption that an active brain area consumes more oxygen

Question 5

What are strengths of fMRIs

Answer 5

• Non- invasive (unlike PET scans which requires radiation)
• good spatial resolution, giving details by the mm

Question 6

What are limitations of fMRIs

Answer 6

• poor temporal resolution - 5 second lag time between image and neuron firing
• indirect way of measuring brain activity - measures blood flow not neuronal activity