Exploring Split Brain and Lateralisation

What is the main purpose of split brain experiments?

• To study the effects of brain injury on memory

• To investigate the functions of the left and right hemispheres

• To measure intelligence levels

• To test the effects of medication on the brain

Answer explanation

The main purpose of split brain experiments is to investigate the functions of the left and right hemispheres of the brain, particularly how they process information differently when communication between them is disrupted.

Which structure is severed in split brain surgery?

• Hippocampus

• Corpus callosum

• Cerebellum

• Medulla oblongata

Answer explanation

In split brain surgery, the corpus callosum is severed to reduce seizures by disconnecting the two hemispheres of the brain. This structure facilitates communication between the hemispheres, making it the correct answer.

In split brain patients, which hemisphere typically controls language in most right-handed individuals?

• Left hemisphere

• Right hemisphere

• Both hemispheres equally

• Neither hemisphere

Answer explanation

In most right-handed individuals, the left hemisphere is primarily responsible for language processing. This is especially evident in split brain patients, where the left hemisphere retains language control.

Which of the following is a key finding from split brain research?

• Both hemispheres can speak independently

• The right hemisphere can recognise faces better than the left

• The left hemisphere is better at spatial tasks

• The corpus callosum is not important for brain function

Answer explanation

Split brain research shows that the right hemisphere excels in recognizing faces, while the left is more verbal. This highlights the specialization of brain hemispheres, making the correct choice about facial recognition.

What is meant by 'brain lateralisation'?

• The brain is divided into four lobes

• Certain mental processes are mainly specialised to one hemisphere

• The brain can function without any hemispheres

• Both hemispheres perform exactly the same functions

Answer explanation

Brain lateralisation refers to the phenomenon where certain mental processes, such as language and spatial awareness, are primarily managed by one hemisphere of the brain, highlighting the specialization of brain functions.

If a split brain patient is shown an object in their left visual field, which hand can they use to pick up the object without looking?

• Right hand

• Left hand

• Both hands equally

• Neither hand

Answer explanation

In split brain patients, the left visual field is processed by the right hemisphere, which controls the left hand. Therefore, if an object is shown in the left visual field, they can use their left hand to pick it up.

Which psychologist is most closely associated with split brain research?

• Jean Piaget

• Roger Sperry

• Sigmund Freud

• B.F. Skinner

Answer explanation

Roger Sperry is the psychologist most closely associated with split brain research, as he conducted pioneering studies on the effects of severing the corpus callosum, which connects the brain's two hemispheres.

Which of the following tasks is the left hemisphere generally better at?

• Drawing and spatial awareness

• Recognising faces

• Language and analytical thinking

• Musical ability

Answer explanation

The left hemisphere is generally better at language and analytical thinking, as it is primarily responsible for processing verbal and logical tasks, unlike the right hemisphere, which excels in spatial and creative abilities.

What is a common reason for performing split brain surgery?

• To treat severe epilepsy

• To improve memory

• To enhance intelligence

• To cure depression

Answer explanation

Split brain surgery is commonly performed to treat severe epilepsy by severing the corpus callosum, which helps control and reduce the frequency of seizures. This procedure does not aim to improve memory, enhance intelligence, or cure depression.

After split brain surgery, why might a patient be unable to verbally name an object placed in their left hand (with eyes closed)?

• The left hand cannot feel objects

• The right hemisphere cannot communicate with the language centres in the left hemisphere

• The patient has lost all memory

• The corpus callosum is still intact

Answer explanation

After split brain surgery, the right hemisphere, which processes sensory input from the left hand, cannot communicate with the language centers in the left hemisphere, preventing verbal identification of the object.