Chapter 6, Problem 1MM

Summary Introduction

Concept introduction: The primary motor cortex is an important brain area that is involved in the motor function. It is located in the frontal lobe of the brain. It is involved in the planning, control, and execution of the voluntary movements.

Answer to Problem 1MM

Correct answer: If a neurosurgeon stimulated your right motor cortex, you would most likely move your left leg. Therefore, option d. is correct.

Explanation of Solution

Reason for the correct statement:

The right side of the brain controls the left side of the body. The right side of the body is coordinated by the left brain. The right motor cortex controls the execution of movements. When the right motor cortex is stimulated, the individual will move the left leg.

Option d. is given as “move your left leg”. An individual will most likely move his/her left leg when stimulated with the right motor cortex, therefore option d. is correct.

Reasons for the incorrect statement:

Option a. is given as “see light”. The right brain hemisphere helps to recognize the visual patterns. Therefore, option a. is incorrect.

Option b. is given as “hear a sound”. The individual cannot hear the sound when the right motor cortex is stimulated as the right motor cortex controls the execution of movement. Therefore, option b. is incorrect.

Option c. is given as “feel a touch on the right arm”. The right side of the body is controlled by the left hemisphere. Therefore, option c. is incorrect.

Hence, options a., b., and c. are incorrect.

Conclusion

If a neurosurgeon stimulated an individual’s right motor cortex, the person would most likely to move the left leg.