Question

What is the evidence for motor programs when reaction time (RT) increases?

Answer 1

Motor programs are pre-programmed sequences of movements that are stored in the brain and used to carry out specific tasks. When reaction time increases, it is an indication that the motor program being executed is more complex or requires more time for processing.

Step-by-step explanation:

Motor programs are pre-programmed sequences of movements that are stored in the brain and used to carry out specific tasks. When reaction time (RT) increases, it is an indication that the motor program being executed is more complex or requires more time for processing.

For example, if a person is asked to react to a simple stimulus like a sound, their RT would be relatively quick. However, if they are asked to react to a more complex stimulus like a visual pattern or a combination of stimuli, their RT may be longer because the brain needs more time to process the information and execute the appropriate motor program.

In experiments like the ruler drop test, an increase in RT can be observed if the task becomes more challenging. This suggests that as the complexity of the task increases, the motor program requires more time to initiate and execute the appropriate response.

Answer 2

Evidence for motor programs during increased reaction time is demonstrated through experiments that assess motor responses, like the ruler drop test, which shows how quickly the central nervous system can execute actions. Muscle contraction adjustments by the CNS or enteric nervous system further support the existence of motor programs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The evidence for motor programs when reaction time (RT) increases can be understood through various experiments that measure the response times of signals from the central nervous system (CNS) to muscle contractions. In such experiments, reaction time is used as an indicator of how quickly the CNS can formulate and execute a motor response.

A simple way to measure reaction time is by using the ruler drop experiment. In this take-home experiment, one's ability to catch a falling ruler helps to estimate the speed of sensory input integration and motor response execution. For instance, if the time it took for someone's foot to move from the gas pedal to the brake in a car was twice their normal reaction time, the distance travelled by the car would be significantly greater, showcasing the importance of fast motor programs for safety in activities like driving.

Additionally, muscle contraction speed is affected by the CNS or enteric nervous system, adapting to local conditions, which can speed up or slow down muscle contractions. This interaction is another form of evidence for motor programs, as it reflects the body's ability to adapt motor functions in response to various stimuli. Besides, certain tasks that involve visual recognition and motor response, such as pressing a button when recognizing a face, can also demonstrate how quickly the brain responds and initiates a motor action.