What imaging technique uses blood flow to assess brain activity during tasks?

fMRI, or functional magnetic resonance imaging, is an advanced imaging technique that measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow. This method operates on the principle that when a specific area of the brain is more active, it requires more oxygen, which is delivered via increased blood flow. The fMRI captures these changes in blood oxygen levels, allowing researchers to visualize which areas of the brain are engaged during various tasks and activities.

This technique is particularly powerful because it provides both structural and functional information about the brain, enabling a better understanding of how different regions contribute to behavior and cognitive processes. It stands out among imaging techniques for its ability to assess brain function in real-time, making it invaluable for research and clinical applications in psychology and neurology.