Brain Imaging: MRI and fMRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

• Creates images of tissues and biochemical activities using a powerful magnetic field and radio waves.
• Provides clear pictures of brain architecture without injections or radiation overexposure.
• Reveals how experience (e.g., motor skills, music practice) can affect brain structure.
• Limitation: Cannot portray brain function.

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)

• Allows scientists to observe the brain in action, revealing brain function.
• Detects changes in blood oxygenation associated with mental activity.
• When a brain area is active, there is an increased rush and surplus of oxygenated blood to that region, which fMRI images.