Scientists have learned a great deal about the specialization of the left and right hemispheres of the brain by studying

• A. CT scans.
• B. Phineas Gage.
• C. split-brain patients.
• D. Alzheimer's patients

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of brain lateralization, which refers to the specialization of the left and right hemispheres of the brain for different functions.
2. Learn about split-brain patients, who have undergone surgery to sever the corpus callosum, the structure that connects the two hemispheres, often to treat severe epilepsy.
3. Explore how studying split-brain patients has provided insights into the distinct functions of each hemisphere, such as language processing typically being associated with the left hemisphere and spatial abilities with the right hemisphere.
4. Consider how experiments with split-brain patients involve presenting stimuli to one hemisphere at a time, allowing researchers to observe the independent functioning of each hemisphere.
5. Reflect on how these studies have contributed to our understanding of the brain's specialization and the importance of the corpus callosum in integrating cognitive processes across hemispheres.