New study using MRI assesses which mental and neural differences affect fluid intelligence.

The ability to solve abstract reasoning problems, sometimes known as ‘fluid intelligence’, plays a central role in many day to day activities across the lifespan. Cam-CAN researchers have studied which mental and neural differences play a role in supporting fluid intelligence. They found that mental speed – how quickly one can press a button – is especially important. Moreover, using MRI they found that the strength of connections between brain regions plays an important role in supporting both mental speed and agility. Mapping these three interconnected mechanisms using mathematical models will help us better understand healthy cognitive aging.

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0028393216302895