OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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Study for the OCR GCSE Biology Exam. Use multiple choice questions and quiz flashcards with explanations and hints. Excel in your exams!

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What is serotonin's role in the brain?

  1. It regulates muscle movement

  2. It enhances feelings of pleasure

  3. It causes pain sensation

  4. It promotes sleep and rest

The correct answer is: It enhances feelings of pleasure

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in modulating mood and emotional responses in the brain. One of its primary functions is to enhance feelings of pleasure and well-being. This is largely because serotonin influences the pathways associated with pleasure and reward. Higher levels of serotonin are often linked to feelings of happiness, while lower levels can contribute to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. The other roles of serotonin, while important, do not primarily pertain to enhancing pleasure. Serotonin is involved in different functions, including the regulation of sleep and the modulation of pain sensation, but its most prominent association is with mood regulation and the promotion of emotional well-being. Therefore, the correct understanding of serotonin’s role as related to pleasure makes it clear why this is the most suitable answer.