How do fMRI and PET scans contribute to our understanding of sensory processing?

fMRI (functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans are crucial tools in neuroscience for studying brain function, particularly regarding sensory processing. These imaging techniques allow for the visualization of brain activity in real-time, giving researchers insight into which areas of the brain are engaged during specific sensory tasks.

fMRI measures changes in blood flow related to neural activity, as active brain regions require more oxygen and thus increase their blood supply. In contrast, PET scans use radioactive tracers to observe metabolic processes in the brain, providing information on how different sensory modalities activate specific neural pathways. By capturing real-time changes in brain activity, both techniques allow scientists to establish links between sensory input and corresponding brain responses, enhancing our understanding of how the brain processes sensory information.

The other options do not accurately represent the primary capabilities of fMRI and PET. While electrical activity of neurons can be measured with techniques like EEG, it is not the function of fMRI or PET. Assessing sensory thresholds often involves behavioral testing rather than imaging, and while neurotransmitter levels can be indirectly inferred from altered brain activity, neither fMRI nor PET directly measures those levels.