Back to AI Flashcard MakerPsychology /Intro to Psychology (PSYC101): Module 4: Older Brain Structures and the Limbic System
Intro to Psychology (PSYC101): Module 4: Older Brain Structures and the Limbic System
This deck covers key concepts related to older brain structures and the limbic system, including brain imaging techniques and specific brain regions and their functions.
Lesion
tissue destruction. A brain lesion is a naturally or experimentally caused destruction of brain tissue.
Tap or swipe ↕ to flip
Swipe ←→Navigate
1/16
Key Terms
Term
Definition
Lesion
tissue destruction. A brain lesion is 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. These waves are measured by electrodes placed on the s...
MEG (magnetoencephalography)
a brain-imaging technique that measures magnetic fields from the brain’s natural electrical activity.
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. MRI scans show brain anatomy.
fMRI (functional MRI)
a technique for revealing blood flow and, therefore, brain activity by comparing successive MRI scans. fMRI scans show brain function as well as struc...
Related Flashcard Decks
Study Tips
- Press F to enter focus mode for distraction-free studying
- Review cards regularly to improve retention
- Try to recall the answer before flipping the card
- Share this deck with friends to study together
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
Lesion | tissue destruction. A brain lesion is 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. These waves are measured by electrodes placed on the scalp. |
MEG (magnetoencephalography) | a brain-imaging technique that measures magnetic fields from the brain’s natural electrical activity. |
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. MRI scans show brain anatomy. |
fMRI (functional MRI) | a technique for revealing blood flow and, therefore, brain activity by comparing successive MRI scans. fMRI scans show brain function as well as structure. |
Brainstem | the oldest part and central core of the brain, beginning where the spinal cord swells as it enters the skull; the brainstem is responsible for automatic survival functions. |
Medulla | the base of the brainstem; controls heartbeat and breathing. |
Thalamus | the brain’s sensory control center, located on top of the brainstem; it directs messages to the sensory receiving areas in the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla. |
Reticular Formation | a nerve network that travels through the brainstem into the thalamus and plays an important role in controlling arousal. |
Cerebellum | the “little brain” at the rear of the brainstem; functions include processing sensory input, coordinating movement output and balance, and enabling nonverbal learning and memory. |
Limbic System | neural system (including the amygdala, hypothalamus, and hippocampus) located at the border between the brainstem and 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 (hypo) the thalamus; it directs several maintenance activities (eating, drinking, body temperature), helps govern the endocrine system via the pituitary gland, and is linked to emotion and reward. |
Hippocampus | a neural center located in the limbic system; helps process explicit (conscious) memories—of facts and events—for storage. |
Pons | a part of the brainstem that helps to coordinate movement |