Q49.3-2CC - Campbell Biology

Question

How do the functions of Broca’s area and Wernicke’s area each relate to the activity of the surrounding cortex?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Broca’s area and Wernicke’s area are the areas of the brain that perform different functions. Broca’s area controls skeletal muscles, and Wernicke’s area is involved in hearing. 

Step 1: Broca’s area and Wernicke’s area

The human brain consists of different types of areas, such as Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas. The former is located near the motor cortex, and the latter is located in the posterior part of the temporal lobe. Both are essential to the systematic functioning of the brain. 

Step 2: Characteristics of Broca’s area and Wernicke’s area

Broca’s area is associated with speech production, and Wernicke’s area is associated with comprehension of language. They both are connected to each other by arcuate fasciculus, a large bundle of nerve fibres. Thus, they both are essential for the production and comprehension of human language. 

Step 3: Functions of Broca’s area and Wernicke’s area

During the generation of speech, Broca’s area, located near the motor cortex, is activated. It also controls skeletal muscles such as that of the face. Wernicke’s area, located in the posterior part of the temporal lobe, is activated when speech is heard. It is involved in hearing.