A laboratory rat has an electrode implanted in its brain.By pressing a metal bar in its cage,the animal can activate the electrode.You are analyzing the data from the most recent experiment day and find that the rat pressed the bar over and over again.The rat did not even eat during the experimental period because it was too busy pressing the bar. In which location is the electrode likely to be implanted?
A)Frontal lobe
B)Mesolimbic system
C)Hypothalamus
D)Occipital lobe
E)All of the choices are possible locations of the electrode.

Question

A laboratory rat has an electrode implanted in its brain.By pressing a metal bar in its cage,the animal can activate the electrode.You are analyzing the data from the most recent experiment day and find that the rat pressed the bar over and over again.The rat did not even eat during the experimental period because it was too busy pressing the bar.  In which location is the electrode likely to be implanted?
A)Frontal lobe
B)Mesolimbic system
C)Hypothalamus
D)Occipital lobe
E)All of the choices are possible locations of the electrode.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mesolimbic system, which includes the nucleus accumbens, is associated with reward and motivation. The fact that the rat repeatedly pressed the bar and did not even eat suggests that the electrode is likely implanted in this area, stimulating the release of dopamine and producing a strong reward response. The other brain regions listed are not typically associated with reward or motivation behaviors.

A Laboratory Rat Has an Electrode Implanted in Its Brain