For synaptic pruning to advance,
A) the neural tube must produce fewer neurons during the prenatal period than the brain will need.
B) the prefrontal cortex must attain adult levels of synaptic connections during the prenatal period.
C) appropriate stimulation of the child's brain is vital during periods in which the formation of synapses is at its peak.
D) between 80 and 90 percent of the neurons produced during the first two years must undergo programmed cell death.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Synaptic pruning is the process of eliminating weaker synaptic connections, and it is essential for the brain to function efficiently. Appropriate stimulation of the child's brain during periods when synapse formation is at its maximum is vital for synaptic pruning to advance. This stimulation results in the strengthening of critical synaptic connections and the elimination of weaker ones. Therefore, choice C is the best option. The other options, A, B, and D, do not accurately describe the process of synaptic pruning. The production of fewer neurons than needed, the attainment of adult levels of synaptic connections, and the death of neurons during the first two years are all essential processes for brain development but are not directly connected to synaptic pruning.

For Synaptic Pruning to Advance