Final answer:
The ventral stream of cortical processing identifies visual stimuli and is linked to memory formation, while the dorsal stream locates objects in space and coordinates body movements in response to visual cues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The functions of dorsal and ventral streams of cortical processing are different yet complementary. The ventral stream, which connects the occipital lobe to the temporal lobe, is responsible for the identification of visual stimuli. It plays a crucial role in determining what objects are and their significance, integrating with structures involved in long-term memory formation. On the other hand, the dorsal stream runs from the occipital lobe to the parietal lobe and is concerned with the spatial location of objects, particularly how they move in space and how movements of the body should be adjusted in response to visual inputs. This stream works closely with the somatosensory cortex and influences motor activities originating in the frontal lobe, allowing for the coordination of visual information with bodily movements.