Question 1

Which of the following best describes the evolutionary trend in nervous system complexity from jellyfish to humans?

Accepted Answer

A shift from a nerve net to centralized brains with specialized regions.

Question 2

During embryonic development, the central nervous system (CNS) originates from which structure?

Accepted Answer

Neural tube

Question 3

At which embryonic week does the anterior portion of the neural tube differentiate into the forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain?

Accepted Answer

Week 4

Question 4

Which of the following statements about the evolution of nervous systems is correct?

Accepted Answer

Cnidarians possess a nerve net, while annelids have simple brains and ganglia.

Question 5

Which process is responsible for the formation of the neural tube during CNS development?

Accepted Answer

Fusion of the neural plate

Question 6

By week 6 of embryonic development, which of the following is true regarding the CNS?

Accepted Answer

The 7 divisions of the CNS are present.

Question 7

Which of the following is a correct pairing of brain region and its evolutionary significance?

Accepted Answer

Cerebrum – associated with complex behaviors in vertebrates

Question 8

If the neural tube fails to close properly during development, which condition is most likely to result?

Accepted Answer

Spina bifida

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why complex brains are associated with complex behaviors?

Accepted Answer

Complex brains have specialized regions that allow for integration and processing of diverse sensory and motor information.

Question 10

Which of the following sequences correctly represents the order of CNS development from earliest to latest?

Accepted Answer

Neural plate → neural tube → forebrain/midbrain/hindbrain → 7 divisions → enlarged cerebrum

Question 11

Which of the following is a direct evolutionary advantage of having ganglia along nerve cords, as seen in annelids?

Accepted Answer

Allows for integration of simple reflexes without the need for a complex brain

Question 12

In vertebrate evolution, which brain region shows the most dramatic change and is associated with higher cognitive functions?

Accepted Answer

Cerebrum

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the function of the neural plate during CNS development?

Accepted Answer

It is a group of cells that gives rise to the neural tube.

Question 14

Which of the following statements about the development of the human nervous system is correct?

Accepted Answer

By week 11, the cerebrum has enlarged and surrounds the diencephalon, midbrain, and pons.

Central Nervous System: Structure, Evolution, and Development

Study Guide - Practice Questions