Explain neural plasticity and give an example in learning.

• A. The brain's fixed circuitry that does not adapt.
• B. Temporary suppression of activity without lasting change.
• C. The brain's ability to change with experience; example: learning a new skill increases synaptic connections.
• D. A degenerative process where connections fade.

Answer: (C)

Neural plasticity is the brain’s ability to change its wiring and function in response to experience. When you learn something new, connections between neurons can become stronger, new synapses can form, and sometimes unused ones fade away, creating more efficient networks for that skill.

For example, learning to play a piano piece strengthens the neural circuits involved in finger movements, auditory processing, and timing. With practice, these pathways become more efficient, which makes playing smoother and more automatic. This illustrates how experience reshapes the brain, unlike ideas that the brain is fixed, only shows temporary changes, or undergoes degeneration.