MCAT Social and Behavioral Sciences : Studying the Brain and Nervous System

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for MCAT Social and Behavioral Sciences

varsity tutors app store varsity tutors android store

All MCAT Social and Behavioral Sciences Resources

133 Practice Tests Question of the Day Flashcards Learn by Concept

Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Individual Behavior And Learning

Which part of the brain is chiefly responsible for planning and problem solving?

Possible Answers:

Temporal lobe

Parietal lobe

Frontal lobe

Cerebellum

Occipital lobe

Correct answer:

Frontal lobe

Explanation:

The “frontal lobe” is involved in more complex reasoning (e.g. planning & problem solving) as well as voluntary movement. It contains the primary motor cortex in which voluntary movements are initiated. 

The “occipital lobe” is important for visual processing. The “parietal lobe” contains the somatosensory cortex and thus is highly important for sensation. The “temporal lobe” is important for auditory and olfactory processing as well as language (i.e. Wernicke's area) and memory (i.e. the hippocampus). Last, the “cerebellum” is responsible for balance and coordinating movements.

All MCAT Social and Behavioral Sciences Resources

133 Practice Tests Question of the Day Flashcards Learn by Concept
Learning Tools by Varsity Tutors