Final answer:
The "what" and "where/how" pathways in the brain allow for object recognition and spatial localization, respectively. Sensory information from the body is processed through ascending pathways in the spinal cord and cranial nerves, which are organized contralaterally.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the brain, visual information undergoes processing in two parallel pathways after reaching the occipital lobe. These are commonly referred to as the "what pathway" and the "where/how pathway". The "what pathway" is crucial for object recognition and identification. It allows us to understand what an object is, such as recognizing a ball rolling down the street. On the other hand, the "where/how pathway" is important for spatial location and interaction with visual stimuli. It informs us of the location or movement of the ball in space.
The processing of sensory input—which includes visual, tactile, and auditory stimuli—is vital for recognizing danger, locating food, and identifying mates. Sensory systems transmit information to the thalamus, which then relays it to specific regions of the cerebral cortex dedicated to each sensory modality. This organization allows for efficient and targeted sensory processing within the central nervous system (CNS).
Additionally, the ascending pathways in the spinal cord carry sensory information to the brain. These pathways are divided based on the location of receptor neurons. Stimuli from below the neck travel through spinal sensory pathways, while stimuli from the head and neck use the cranial nerves, particularly the trigeminal system. Importantly, sensory systems in the spinal cord often exhibit contralateral connections, meaning the right side of the body is connected to the left side of the brain and vice versa.