The brain

function of the cerebral cortex

consciousness

function of the hypothalamus

temperature control

function of the pituitary gland

produces chemical messengers (hormones)

function of the cerebellum

coordinated muscular activity and balance

function of the medulla

unconscious activities (heart rate

How do we find out how the brain works?

• Studying people with brain damage
• Electrically stimulating the brain
• MRI scans

How do we use 'studying people with brain damage' to find out how the brain works?

Work out what parts of the brain do by looking at people who have those parts damaged

How do we use 'electrically stimulating the brain' to find out how the brain works?

Scientist expose the brain and stimulate different areas to see what effect it has. Usually done on conscious patients to see what effect it has

How do we use 'MRI scans' to find out how the brain works?

A scan that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body

What problems are there within the brain?

Easily damaged -> difficult to investigate brain disorders and treat them

What are fMRI scanners?

Functional magnetic resonance imaging

Why are fMRI scanners popular for studying brain function?

Non - invasive

How does the brain respond to different situations?

Brain more active = needs more oxygen