Homework #2

Type your answer to each of the following questions. Please submit your answers no later than Tuesday January 28^th.

Name the protective features ‘Mother Nature’ endowed mammals with to protect the CNS. Explain how each contributes to this function, and explain why it is still important to wear headgear when riding a bike or playing sports such as hockey or football.

Would a brain tumor that destroyed the functioning of nerve cells in the medulla lead to death quicker than a tumor of the same size on the cerebral cortex? Defend your answer.

Identify the specific regions of Gina’s brain that helped her recover her balance & continue her routine when she stumbled during the floor exercise portion of the gymnastic competition.

What is the sodium-potassium pump? Explain where it is located, and how it works.

I am eating a sandwich. Identify which cranial nerve[s] innervates:

• Muscles of mastication
• Tongue and throat muscles for swallowing
• Ability to taste my sandwich
• Smile at the taste