Question 1: Define the term 'brain cortex' and explain its primary function in the human brain.

Answer: The brain cortex is the outer layer of the brain, responsible for higher-order functions such as perception, thought, decision-making, and voluntary movement.

Question 2: Describe how exposure to increased levels of environmental stressors due to climate change could potentially impact the hippocampus, a brain region involved in memory.

Answer: Increased environmental stressors may lead to elevated cortisol levels, which can damage the hippocampus, impairing memory formation and cognitive functions.

Question 3: Explain why the hypothalamus plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis during climate-related stress.

Answer: The hypothalamus regulates body temperature, hunger, and hormonal responses, helping the body adapt to environmental changes caused by climate stress.

Question 4: Calculate the increase in body temperature (°C) if an environmental temperature rise from 20°C to 35°C causes a 0.5°C increase in core temperature per 1°C rise in ambient temperature. Show your working.

Answer: Increase in body temperature = 0.5°C per 1°C rise × 15°C = 7.5°C

Question 5: Identify the variables involved when studying the effect of rising temperature on brain function in laboratory experiments.

Answer: Independent variable: environmental temperature; Dependent variable: brain function or activity; Controlled variables: humidity, lighting, duration of exposure.

Question 6: Propose safety precautions that should be taken when conducting experiments involving temperature changes affecting brain tissue.

Answer: Use temperature-controlled environments to prevent overheating, ensure proper insulation, monitor tissue temperature continuously, wear protective equipment, and have emergency cooling measures in place.

Question 7: Describe a scenario where climate change could indirectly affect brain health through changes in air quality.

Answer: Increased air pollution due to climate change can lead to higher levels of airborne pollutants like sulphur dioxide and particulate matter, which may cause neuroinflammation and cognitive decline.

Question 8: Explain how an increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels might influence brain function based on current scientific understanding.

Answer: Higher CO2 levels can lead to reduced oxygen availability in the brain, potentially impairing cognitive functions and increasing stress responses.

Question 9: Describe how researchers might study the impact of climate-related temperature fluctuations on brain activity in a controlled laboratory setting.

Answer: Researchers could expose animal models or brain tissue samples to different controlled temperature environments, measure changes in neural activity using EEG or other neuroimaging techniques, and compare results to assess impacts.

Question 10: Using what you have learned, discuss how technological advances could help mitigate the effects of climate change on brain health.

Answer: Advances such as improved air filtration systems, development of neuroprotective medications, and climate-resilient infrastructure can reduce environmental stressors on the brain, helping to protect cognitive health amid climate change.