Fig. 1 is a scan-based map from a study of six volunteers completing a spatial-navigation task in a virtual museum. Darker outlined areas show increased blo...
Question 1 Report
Fig. 1 is a scan-based map from a study of six volunteers completing a spatial-navigation task in a virtual museum. Darker outlined areas show increased blood oxygenation. The researcher wants to relate the map to a cognitive model of memory.
(a) Name the brain structure labelled X. [1]
(b) Outline one role of X in memory. [2]
(c) Explain why increased blood oxygenation is used as an indirect measure of neural activity. [2]
(d) Use the figure to explain why the study supports localisation of function. [1]
Answer Details
(a) X = hippocampus [1] (b) It helps form new episodic memories / supports spatial memory and navigation [1]. It helps organise memories of places and events [1]. (c) Active neurones need energy / oxygen [1]. Blood flow and oxygenation increase in active areas, which fMRI detects rather than detecting firing directly [1]. (d) Activity is concentrated in the hippocampal region during navigation, linking a particular area with a particular function [1].
Download The App On Google Playstore
Everything you need to excel in your exams
