Brain Structure and Function Terminology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to brain structure and function, including definitions for various brain imaging techniques and parts of the brain.

lesion

A naturally or experimentally caused destruction of brain tissue.

EEG (electroencephalogram)

An amplified recording of the waves of electrical activity sweeping across the brain's surface, measured by electrodes placed on the scalp.

MEG (magnetoencephalography)

A brain imaging technique that measures magnetic fields from the brain's natural electrical activity.

CT (computed tomography) scan

A series of X-ray photographs taken from different angles and combined by computer into a composite representation of a slice of the brain's structure.

PET (positron emission tomography) scan

A visual display of brain activity that detects where a radioactive form of glucose goes while the brain performs a given task.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)

A technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce computer-generated images of soft tissue.

fMRI (functional MRI)

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, responsible for automatic survival functions.

medulla

The base of the brainstem; controls heartbeat and breathing.

thalamus

The brain's sensory control center; directs messages to the sensory receiving areas in the cortex.

reticular formation

A nerve network that travels through the brainstem into the thalamus, playing an important role in controlling arousal.

cerebellum

The 'little brain' at the rear of the brainstem; functions include processing sensory input and coordinating movement output and balance.

limbic system

A 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 and is linked to emotion and reward.

hippocampus

A neural center located in the limbic system; helps process for storage explicit memories of facts and events.