Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the blood-brain barrier (BBB)?

Accepted Answer

It selectively restricts the passage of water-soluble substances while allowing small lipid-soluble molecules and gases to cross.

Question 2

A patient presents with an inability to form new long-term memories after a head injury. Which brain region is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Hippocampus

Question 3

Which of the following is a function of the hypothalamus?

Accepted Answer

Regulating body temperature and hunger

Question 4

Which structure is responsible for the production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

Accepted Answer

Choroid plexus

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why the cerebrum is highly convoluted (furrowed) in humans?

Accepted Answer

To maximize the surface area for higher cognitive functions within the limited volume of the skull

Question 6

A patient is unable to understand spoken or written language but can speak fluently, although the speech is nonsensical. Which area is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Wernicke's area

Question 7

Which of the following cranial nerves is responsible for both sensory and motor functions related to the face and chewing?

Accepted Answer

Trigeminal (V)

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the difference between gray matter and white matter in the CNS?

Accepted Answer

Gray matter contains unmyelinated cell bodies and dendrites, while white matter contains myelinated axons.

Question 9

Which of the following is a correct pathway for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation?

Accepted Answer

Produced in the choroid plexus → ventricles → subarachnoid space → reabsorbed by arachnoid villi

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the function of the reticular activating system (RAS)?

Accepted Answer

Controls the sleep-wake cycle and consciousness

Question 11

A patient with damage to the cerebellum would most likely experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Difficulty with coordination and balance

Question 12

Which of the following is a function of the limbic system?

Accepted Answer

Processing of emotions and memory

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the role of the thalamus?

Accepted Answer

It acts as a relay station for sensory and motor information (except olfactory).

Question 14

Which of the following is true regarding the evolution of nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

The most dramatic change in vertebrate evolution is seen in the forebrain, especially the cerebrum.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the function of the dorsal root of the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

Carries sensory (afferent) information to the CNS

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct statement about sleep?

Accepted Answer

Stage N3 sleep is the deepest stage of non-REM sleep and is important for restoration.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the difference between declarative (explicit) and reflexive (implicit) memory?

Accepted Answer

Reflexive memory is acquired slowly through repetition and includes motor skills.

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why progressive hypoglycemia can lead to confusion and unconsciousness?

Accepted Answer

The brain relies almost exclusively on glucose for energy, and low glucose impairs neuronal function.

Question 19

Which of the following is a real-life example of a spinal reflex?

Accepted Answer

Withdrawing your hand from a hot stove before you consciously feel pain

Central Nervous System: Structure, Function, and Development

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