What does an electroencephalogram (EEG) measure?

An electroencephalogram (EEG) measures the electrical activity of the brain. This technique involves placing electrodes on the scalp to detect the electrical impulses generated by neuronal activity. The resulting recordings provide valuable information about brain function, allowing for the assessment of various neurological conditions such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, and brain tumors.

Understanding the brain’s electrical activity is crucial in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions, making EEG a vital tool in both clinical and research settings. The other options—blood pressure, muscle contractions, and hormonal levels—are measured using different methods and instruments, emphasizing the unique role that EEG plays in assessing brain function specifically.