Question 1

Which statement best explains why brain size is not a reliable indicator of intelligence?

Accepted Answer

Brain size is directly proportional to body size, not intelligence.

Question 2

A patient suffers a stroke that damages the left hemisphere of the brain. Which function is most likely to be impaired?

Accepted Answer

Language comprehension and production

Question 3

Which imaging technique allows scientists to observe the brain in action by measuring changes in blood flow?

Accepted Answer

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)

Question 4

The cerebellum is primarily responsible for which of the following functions?

Accepted Answer

Coordinating repetitive body movements

Question 5

Which layer of the cranial meninges is closest to the brain tissue?

Accepted Answer

Pia mater

Question 6

Damage to Broca's area in the left hemisphere would most likely result in which clinical symptom?

Accepted Answer

Difficulty producing speech

Question 7

Which part of the brain is considered the 'center of our conscious mind'?

Accepted Answer

Cerebral cortex

Question 8

A patient presents with blisters and pain along a specific dermatome. Which virus is most likely responsible for this condition?

Accepted Answer

Varicella zoster virus

Question 9

Which equation best represents the relationship between brain mass and body mass?

Accepted Answer

$$Brain\ mass \propto Body\ mass$$

Question 10

Which structure connects the hypothalamus to the pituitary gland, allowing for neuroendocrine communication?

Accepted Answer

Infundibulum

Question 11

A patient with damage to the prefrontal cortex would most likely experience deficits in which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Judgement and planning

Question 12

Which of the following is a function of the hypothalamus?

Accepted Answer

Regulation of body temperature

Question 13

Which of the following statements about prions is correct?

Accepted Answer

Prions are misfolded proteins that can induce conformational changes in normal proteins.

Question 14

Which equation best describes the chain reaction caused by prions in the brain?

Accepted Answer

$$PrP^{C}$$ + $$PrP^{Sc}$$ \rightarrow $$2PrP^{Sc}$$

Question 15

Which part of the brain stem is primarily responsible for regulating autonomic functions such as heart rate and digestion?

Accepted Answer

Medulla oblongata

Question 16

Which lobe of the cerebral cortex is most associated with reasoning, planning, and voluntary movement?

Accepted Answer

Frontal lobe

Question 17

A patient is unable to localize points on their body where sensations originate. Which area of the cerebral cortex is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Primary somatosensory area

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the organization of the spinal cord's gray and white matter?

Accepted Answer

Peripheral regions contain white matter; central region contains gray matter.

Question 19

Which of the following is a real-world consequence of a traumatic brain injury such as a concussion?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive problems may occur even without visible external damage.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the phenomenon where each cerebral hemisphere specializes in certain functions?

Accepted Answer

Lateralization

The Central Nervous System: The Brain and Spinal Cord – Structure and Function

Study Guide - Practice Questions