How Is Magnetic Resonance Imaging Used to Learn About the Brain?

AGES: 13–14 To study the brain, scientists can use a machine called an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scanner. An MRI scanner takes pictures of the brain in a safe way, allowing scientists to learn about the structure of the brain and its functions. MRI helps scientists learn which areas of the brain are active when you engage in di erent activities, such as reading a sentence like this one! First, this article explains how theMRI scanner safely takes high-quality pictures of the brain. Next, we will explain how the MRI scanner can help scientists learn how the brain functions by measuring activity in di erent parts of the brain. Finally, we describe what it is like to participate in a study involving the MRI scanner and the kinds of questions scientists can answer using the MRI scanner as a tool.