What does EEG stand for in the context of brain activity measurement?

In the context of brain activity measurement, EEG stands for Electroencephalogram. This term specifically refers to the recording of electrical activity in the brain. An electroencephalogram is produced by placing electrodes on the scalp, which measure voltage fluctuations resulting from ionic current within the neurons of the brain. The resulting data is used to analyze brain function, diagnose conditions such as epilepsy, and understand cognitive processes.

The other terms, while similar in structure, pertain to different aspects of biological electrical activity. An electroencephalograph, for instance, is the instrument used to record the EEG; however, it is not what EEG stands for. An electrocardiogram measures the electrical activity of the heart, and an electromyogram records electrical activity in muscles. Each of these terms refers to distinct physiological measurements, underscoring the specificity of the term EEG to brain activity.