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X Rays have been the traditional method of brain imaging, but the two-dimensional nature of the X Ray image limits its effectiveness. A newer technique, called the Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan, uses a computer to produce a 3-D image. This allows researchers to gain info associated with stroke damage, language disorder, or memory loss. This information is highly relevant because experts can analyze the specific causes in the brain for noticeable differences in human life.

Another method of brain imaging, positron-emission tomography (PET scan), monitors glucose levels in the brain. Since glucose levels vary with activity level, monitoring glucose allows researchers to track brain activity. They can thus see which areas of the brain are in use during various tasks, such as hearing, eating, speaking, etc. This research supports split-brain hypotheses, among others. PET scans have been used to compare brain differences between normal people and those with psychological disorders (thereby attempting to explain the disorders). The scans have also been used to compare sex differences.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field erected around a person's body to make images of the individual's tissues. In one study, MRI was used to examine the effects of alcoholism on the brain. In this study, non-alcoholics performed significantly better on a memory task, indicating that alcoholism might inhibit memory.

The EEG (electroencephalogram) essentially creates a printout of "brainwaves." Because these waves represent neural electrical activity, researchers can analyze the data to learn more about various behaviors. Some of these behaviors include sleep and emotions.

The fMRI scan, which is still primitive, is a form of MRI used for "memory mapping." Ideally, researchers would be able to use this technology to delve much deeper into the topic of memory.