The Cerebral Cortex

In primates, what two brain areas constitute a much larger percentage of the brain than in insectivores?

The forebrain and the cerebellum.

The cells of the cerebral cortex are arranged in six distinct layers, or _____, parallel to the surface of the cortex.

Laminae

Which lamina of the cerebral cortex receives axons from the sensory nuclei of the thalamus?

Lamina IV

Which lamina of the cerebral cortex sends long axons to the spinal cord and other distant brain areas, making it the main source of motor output?

Lamina V

How are the cells of the cerebral cortex organised in relation to the laminae?

They are organised into columns of cells perpendicular to the laminae.

What common characteristic do all neurons within a single column of the cerebral cortex share?

They have similar properties and respond to the same stimulus.

What are the four lobes in the cerebral cortex?

Occipital, parietal, temporal, and frontal.

Where is the occipital lobe located?

At the posterior end of the cortex.

What is the primary function of the occipital lobe?

Recieves and processes visual information

What is the primary function of the occipital lobe?

The posterior pole of the occipital lobe is known as the primary visual cortex, or _____ cortex.

striate

Why is the primary visual cortex also called the striate cortex?

Because of its striped appearance in cross-section.

What is the primary consequence of destruction to any part of the striate cortex?

Cortical blindness