Mon Prof Augmenté
Eyes, Ears, and the Fear Switch
Age 12 · Biology
Light and sound enter through your eyes and ears. Signals travel through a brain relay to two almond-shaped clusters called the amygdala, which can set off fear before you think about what is happening.
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In the picture
- Eye: takes in light from the surroundings
- Ear: takes in sound waves
- Thalamus: a brain relay where signals from the eye and ear meet
- Amygdala: one of two almond-shaped clusters that can start a fear response before conscious judgment
Examples
- A sudden loud bang makes you flinch before you know what caused it.
- A stick on the path looks like a snake for a moment, and your heart races before you see it is only wood.
Key takeaways
- Sensory signals can reach the amygdala by a fast route before conscious judgment.
- The amygdala can start fear responses such as a faster heartbeat and quick breathing.
Quiz: Eyes, Ears, and the Fear Switch (Age 12)
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Which part is described as a brain relay where signals from the eye and ear meet?
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What can the amygdala start before conscious judgment?
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Which fear responses does the card say the amygdala can start?
The answers, each with its explanation, are in the app. This lesson has left the free week, so its quiz is part of the subscription.
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