Human Anatomy & Physiology (9th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321743261
ISBN 13: 978-0-32174-326-8

Chapter 12 - The Central Nervous System - Review Questions - Page 481: 14a

Answer

The major advantage is one of economical use of space. Space in the cranium is limited. However, bigger brains or more brain surface signals evolutionary advancement. The cortex is 40% of the weight of the brain and it is probably the highest center. Folding of the cerebral surface increases its surface area by 300% without requiring three times the cranial space to house it. This represents a great savings in weight of the head and the associated energy to carry it around every day .

Work Step by Step

The folding of the cerebral hemispheres is an efficient way of maximizing desirable cerebral surface in the minimum of precious cranial space. The folding of the cerebrum increases its surface area by 300% without associated increase in cranial capacity. This is very economical for the organism
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