The Human Brain

1. What is the primary method of communication between neurons?

• A. Physical touch and friction
• B. Tiny electrical sparks and chemical neurotransmitters
• C. Sound waves moving through the skull
• D. Blood flow circulating through the gray matter

2. Which part of the brain is responsible for balance and coordination?

• A. The cerebrum
• B. The brainstem
• C. The cerebellum
• D. The spinal cord

3. What happens during a reflex arc when you touch a hot stove?

• A. The brain processes the pain first, then moves the hand.
• B. The spinal cord sends a command to the muscles before the brain finishes processing.
• C. The cerebrum directs the eyes to look at the hand before moving.
• D. The neurotransmitters are stored until the heart rate increases.

4. Why is the cortex of the brain wrinkled?

• A. To allow space for more blood vessels
• B. To protect the brain from physical injury
• C. To increase the surface area for processing power
• D. To help the brain float in spinal fluid

1. How does neuroplasticity allow your brain to change?

• A. It forces the brain to grow larger in size every year.
• B. It helps the brain replace lost cells with new ones instantly.
• C. It strengthens neural pathways based on repetition and experience.
• D. It deletes old memories to make room for new ones.

2. Why do different parts of the brain sometimes conflict with each other?

• A. The brain consists of layers representing evolutionary history with competing goals.
• B. The two hemispheres of the brain have entirely different personalities.
• C. Neurotransmitters are sometimes distributed randomly to the wrong areas.
• D. The brainstem overrides the prefrontal cortex during every decision.

3. What is a main function of sleep according to brain research?

• A. To stop all electrical activity so the brain can cool down.
• B. To consolidate memories and clear out metabolic waste.
• C. To generate new neurons to replace damaged ones.
• D. To increase the speed of the heart rate for better rest.

4. If you spend hours constantly seeking new stimuli, what happens due to neuroplasticity?

• A. Your brain becomes better at staying focused for long periods.
• B. Your brain physically rewires itself to become better at being distracted.
• C. Your dopamine levels will permanently drop to zero.
• D. Your brain will stop using the cerebellum for physical movement.