71.6k views
2 votes
What are the components of the primary somatosensory cortex (S1)?

1) Precentral gyrus + Postcentral gyrus
2) Precentral gyrus + Precentral bank of central sulcus
3) Postcentral gyrus + Postcentral bank of central sulcus
4) Postcentral gyrus + Precentral bank of central sulcus

User Mavbozo
by
7.9k points

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

The primary somatosensory cortex (S1) comprises the postcentral gyrus and the postcentral bank of the central sulcus, encompassing Brodmann's areas 1, 2, and 3, which process various tactile sensations and sense of body position and movement.

Step-by-step explanation:

The components of the primary somatosensory cortex (S1) include the regions identified as Brodmann's areas 1, 2, and 3 within the postcentral gyrus and the postcentral bank of the central sulcus. These areas process tactile senses such as touch, pressure, tickle, pain, itch, and vibration, as well as proprioception and kinesthesia, which relate to the body's position and movement. The primary motor cortex, which involves motor function and is located in the precentral gyrus, is distinct from the somatosensory cortex.

The correct answer to the question is thus option 3) Postcentral gyrus + Postcentral bank of central sulcus, comprising the primary somatosensory cortex or S1. In contrast, the precentral gyrus houses the primary motor cortex, which is Brodmann area 4, and is responsible for generating neural impulses that control the execution of movement.

User Heinrich Apfelmus
by
8.2k points