How is magnetic resonance imaging used to learn about the brain?

To study the brain, scientists can use a machine called an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scanner. An MRI scanner takes pictures of the brain in a safe way, allowing scientists to learn about the structure of the brain and its functions.

Why is magnetic resonance important?

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) has become a staple of medical diagnostics. Millions of Americans have had an MRI; it is a useful non-invasive and non-destructive diagnostic tool for imaging soft tissues such as the brain, heart and muscles, and for discovering tumors in many organs.

How does fMRI benefit psychology?

Greater spatial resolution allows psychologists to discriminate between different brain regions with greater accuracy. Consequently, psychologists can determine the activity of different brain regions with greater accuracy when using fMRI, in comparison to when using EEG and/or ERP.

Why do psychologists use MRI?

With their high level of detail, MRI and fMRI are often used to compare the brains of healthy individuals to the brains of individuals diagnosed with psychological disorders. This comparison helps determine what structural and functional differences exist between these populations.

What is magnetic resonance?

magnetic resonance, absorption or emission of electromagnetic radiation by electrons or atomic nuclei in response to the application of certain magnetic fields. The principles of magnetic resonance are applied in the laboratory to analyze the atomic and nuclear properties of matter.

Why is NMR spectroscopy important?

Similarly, biochemists use NMR to identify proteins and other complex molecules. Besides identification, NMR spectroscopy provides detailed information about the structure, dynamics, reaction state, and chemical environment of molecules.

What is the temporal resolution of fNIRS?

fNIRS is characterized by a relatively high temporal resolution (sampling rate up to 100 Hz; typically between 1 and 10 Hz). Locations of sources/detectors can be captured using neuronavigation systems.

What are the three advantages of using fMRIs?

The big advantage of fMRI is that it doesn’t use radiation like X-rays, computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET) scans. If done correctly, fMRI has virtually no risks. It can evaluate brain function safely, noninvasively and effectively.

What is a CAT scan in psychology?

computed tomography (CT) a radiographic technique for quickly producing detailed, three-dimensional images of the brain or other soft tissues. An X-ray beam is passed through the tissue from many different locations, and the different patterns of radiation absorption are analyzed and synthesized by a computer.

What is a PET scan in psychology?

A brain positron emission tomography (PET) scan is an imaging test of the brain. It uses a radioactive substance called a tracer to look for disease or injury in the brain. A PET scan shows how the brain and its tissues are working.

What is functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain (fMRI)?

Functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain (fMRI) is used to determine the specific location of the brain where a certain function, such as speech or memory, occurs. The general areas of the brain in which such functions occur are known, but the exact location may vary from person to person.

What is magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS)?

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is another noninvasive procedure used to assess chemical abnormalities in body tissues, such as the brain. MRS may be used to assess disorders such as HIV infection of the brain , stroke , head injury , coma, Alzheimer’s disease , tumors, and multiple sclerosis .

What are the reasons for an MRI of the brain or spine?

What are the reasons for an MRI of the brain or spine? MRI may be used to examine the brain and/or spinal cord for injuries or the presence of structural abnormalities or certain other conditions, such as: Subdural hematoma (an area of bleeding just under the dura mater, or covering of the brain)

What is magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)?

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a new procedure used to evaluate blood flow through arteries in a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) manner. MRA can also be used to detect intracranial (within the brain) aneurysms and vascular malformations (abnormalities of blood vessels within the brain, spinal cord, or other parts of the body).