Chapter 3: Right Brain/Left Brain Cerebral Laterality

Explanation
The cerebrum cortex has six layers of neurons. These layers are responsible for various functions such as processing sensory information, controlling motor movements, and higher cognitive functions like memory and language. Each layer has a distinct arrangement of neurons and connections, allowing for complex information processing and integration.

Explanation
The two hemispheres of the brain are connected and communicate with each other through a structure called the Corpus Callosum. This thick band of nerve fibers allows information and signals to be transmitted between the left and right hemispheres, enabling them to work together in various cognitive functions such as language processing, problem-solving, and coordination. Without the Corpus Callosum, the hemispheres would function independently, leading to a lack of integration and coordination in brain activities.

Explanation
The angular gyrus is the correct answer because it is a region in the brain that plays a crucial role in the connection between the language centers and the visual cortex. It is involved in the processing and integration of visual and auditory information, which is important for tasks such as reading and language comprehension. The angular gyrus helps in linking visual stimuli with their corresponding meaning, allowing for the understanding and interpretation of written language.

Explanation
When the language center and visual cortex are damaged, a person will suffer from Alexia and Agraphia. Alexia refers to the inability to read, while Agraphia refers to the inability to write. These conditions occur when the areas of the brain responsible for language processing and visual perception are affected. The damage disrupts the person's ability to comprehend written words and express their thoughts through writing. This can significantly impact their communication skills and overall quality of life.

Explanation
Alexia refers to the inability to read. It is a condition where individuals have difficulty or are unable to understand written language, despite having normal vision and adequate intelligence. This can be caused by various factors such as brain damage, stroke, or neurological disorders. People with alexia may struggle to recognize letters, words, or sentences, and may have difficulty comprehending written information. This condition can significantly impact a person's ability to communicate and engage in activities that require reading skills.

Explanation
Agraphia refers to the inability to write. It is a condition where a person loses the ability to write coherently or at all, despite having the physical ability to do so. This can be caused by various factors such as brain damage, stroke, or neurological disorders. Agraphia is different from the inability to read or speak, as it specifically pertains to the impairment in writing skills.

Explanation
Split brain surgery is a procedure used to help reduce epileptic seizures. It involves severing the corpus callosum, the band of nerve fibers that connects the two hemispheres of the brain. This surgery is typically performed in cases where seizures cannot be controlled with medication. By severing the connection between the two hemispheres, the spread of abnormal electrical activity is limited, reducing the frequency and severity of seizures.

Explanation
The primary connections of each hemisphere are to the opposite side of the body. This is because the brain is cross-wired, meaning that the left hemisphere controls the right side of the body and the right hemisphere controls the left side of the body. This is why damage to one side of the brain can result in motor or sensory deficits on the opposite side of the body.

Explanation
In Split Brain patients, neither hemisphere is dominant. Split brain refers to a condition where the corpus callosum, the bundle of nerve fibers connecting the two hemispheres of the brain, is severed. This prevents communication between the two hemispheres, resulting in each hemisphere functioning independently. As a result, neither hemisphere can be considered dominant as they operate separately and have distinct functions.

Explanation
The right brain specializes in combining parts to make them whole. This refers to its ability to perceive and process information holistically, recognizing patterns and relationships between different elements. Unlike logical thinking, which is associated with the left brain, the right brain focuses on the big picture rather than breaking things down into smaller components. Analysis and accuracy, on the other hand, are more closely related to logical thinking and the left brain's analytical abilities.