Question

read the excerpt from \a computer can now translate languages as well as a human.\

deep learning software is inspired by the structure of the brains neocortex, the grooved upper layer of the brain thats in charge of complex mental functions like sensory perception, spatial reasoning, and language. the neocortex makes up about three-fourths of the brain and is itself made up of six layers. the layers contain ten to fourteen billion neurons which vary in shape, size, and density from layer to layer.

what is the technical meaning of the word neocortex?

the structure of the brain
the upper layer of the brain
the mental functions of the brain
the neurons of the brain

Explanation:

Locate the target word in the text

The word "neocortex" appears in the first sentence of the excerpt: "Deep learning software is inspired by the structure of the brain's neocortex, the grooved upper layer of the brain that's in charge of complex mental functions like sensory perception, spatial reasoning, and language."

Analyze the context clues

Directly following the word "neocortex," the author provides an appositive phrase set off by a comma: ", the grooved upper layer of the brain...". This appositive directly defines the term.

Evaluate the options

• "the structure of the brain": Too broad; the text mentions the neocortex is a specific part of the brain's structure, not the entire structure itself.
• "the upper layer of the brain": Correct; this matches the direct definition provided in the text ("the grooved upper layer of the brain").
• "the mental functions of the brain": Incorrect; the neocortex is in charge of these functions, but it is not the functions themselves.
• "the neurons of the brain": Incorrect; the layers of the neocortex contain neurons, but the neocortex itself is the layer.

Answer:

• (A) the structure of the brain
• (B) the upper layer of the brain (Correct answer)
• (C) the mental functions of the brain
• (D) the neurons of the brain