Suppose a finger is amputated. The part of the cerebral cortex that used to respond to that finger will:
A) degenerate and die.
B) remain alive but forever inactive.
C) be active at times when the individual would have used that finger.
D) become responsive to other fingers or part of the palm.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The part of the cerebral cortex that used to respond to the amputated finger will become responsive to other fingers or part of the palm. This is known as cortical reorganization, where nearby areas in the brain take over the functions of the missing finger. Studies have shown that over time, the brain can rewire itself to adapt to the loss of a limb.

Suppose a Finger Is Amputated