Question

Evaluate each statement regarding the characteristics of the cerebrum and determine if it is true or false.

a. The size of the cerebrum increased as animals with more complex nervous systems evolved.
b. As organisms evolved, the expansion of skull size increased more rapidly than the surface area of the cerebrum.
c. The mass of the human brain is larger than what would be predicted based on body mass.
d. Increased brain mass and the amount of folding are correlated with simpler behaviors.
e. Animals with small brains are always behaviorally limited compared with animals with large brains.

Answer 1

The statement regarding the human brain mass being larger than predicted for body size is true due to encephalization. The statement that animals with small brains are always behaviorally limited compared to those with large brains is false, as capabilities can vary irrespective of brain size.

Step-by-step explanation:

Evaluate the following statements about the characteristics of the cerebrum:

• The mass of the human brain is larger than what would be predicted based on body mass. True. The process of encephalization has led to a significant increase in brain mass in humans relative to body mass, especially in the neocortex, which is responsible for higher functions such as language and consciousness.
• Animals with small brains are always behaviorally limited compared with animals with large brains. False. While larger brains, particularly with a developed cerebral cortex, are associated with higher mental abilities and complex behaviors, it is not always the case that animals with smaller brains are behaviorally limited. Different species may have different adaptations that allow complex behaviors regardless of brain size.