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

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Which method is NOT commonly used to study brain function?

Case studies
fMRI scanners
Electrocardiograms
Post-mortem examinations

The correct answer is: Electrocardiograms

The method that is not commonly used to study brain function is the electrocardiogram (ECG). This technique primarily measures the electrical activity of the heart, making it unsuitable for directly investigating brain activity or functions. In contrast, case studies, fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) scanners, and post-mortem examinations are all established methods for exploring brain function. Case studies allow for an in-depth analysis of individuals with brain injuries or cognitive disorders, providing insights into the relationship between brain and behavior. fMRI scanners enable researchers to visualize brain activity in real-time by detecting changes in blood flow, helping to understand how different areas of the brain work during various tasks. Post-mortem examinations involve analyzing brain tissue after death to identify structural changes related to certain diseases or conditions. Each of these methods contributes significantly to our understanding of the brain, unlike the electrocardiogram, which focuses on cardiac function instead.