Neuroanatomy and Brain Functions Exam Questions with Complete Solutions

Cerebral Cortex - ANSWER-The outermost layer of the cerebral hemisphere which is composed of gray matter. Cortices are asymmetrical. Both hemispheres are able to analyze sensory data, perform memory functions, learn new information, form thoughts and make decisions. Left Hemisphere - ANSWER-Sequential Analysis: systematic, logical interpretation of information. Interpretation and production of symbolic information: language, mathematics, abstraction and reasoning. Memory stored in a language format. Right hemisphere - ANSWER-Holistic Functioning: processing multi-sensory input simultaneously to provide "holistic" picture of one's environment. Visual spatial skills. Holistic functions such as dancing and gymnastics. Memory is stored in auditory, visual and spatial modalities. Corpus Collosum - ANSWER-communication between the two hemispheres Frontal Lobe - ANSWER-Cognition and memory. Prefrontal area: The ability to concentrate and attend, elaboration of thought. The "Gatekeeper"; (judgment, inhibition). Personality and emotional traits. Motor Cortex (Brodman's): voluntary motor activity. Premotor Cortex: storage of motor patterns and voluntary activities. Language: motor speech Parietal Lobe - ANSWER-processing of sensory input. Body orientation (proprioception) Occipital Lobe - ANSWER-Primary visual reception and association Temporal Lobe - ANSWER-Auditory reception and interpretation, expressed behavior, receptive speech, information retrieval Limbic System - ANSWER-olfactory path ways, biologic rhythms, hypothalamus Basal Ganglia - ANSWER-Subcortical gray matter nuclei. Processing link between thalamus and motor cortex. Initiation and direction of voluntary movement. Balance (inhibitory), Postural reflexes. Automatic movement Amygdala - ANSWER-neural centers in the limbic system linked to emotion hippocampus - ANSWER-a structure in the limbic system linked to memory