Module 1.5b

Question 1

Sleep

Answer 1

A periodic, natural loss of consciousness – as distinct from unconsciousness resulting from a coma, general anesthesia, or hibernation.

Question 2

Circadian Rhythm

Answer 2

Our biological clock; regular bodily rhythms (for example, of temperature & wakefulness) that occur on a 24 hour cycle

Question 3

REM Sleep

Answer 3

Rapid-eye movement sleep; a recurring sleep stage during which vivid dreams commonly occur. Also known as paradoxical sleep, because the muscles are relaxed (except for minor twitches) but other body systems are active. (Sometimes called R Sleep).

Question 4

Alpha Waves

Answer 4

The relatively slow brain waves of a relaxed, awake state.

Question 5

NREM Sleep

Answer 5

Non-rapid eye movement sleep; encompasses all sleep stages except for REM Sleep.

Question 6

Hallucinations

Answer 6

False sensory experiences, such as seeing something in the absence of an external visual stimulus.

Question 7

Delta Waves

Answer 7

The large, slow brain waves associated with deep sleep

Question 8

Hypnagogic Sensations

Answer 8

Bizarre experiences, such as jerking or a feeling of falling or floated weightlessly, while transitioning to sleep (also called hypnic sensations)

Question 9

Suprachiamatic Nucleus

Answer 9

A pair of cell clusters in the hypothalamus that controls circadian rhythm. In response to light, the SCN adjusts melatonin production, thus modifying our feelings of sleepiness.

Question 10

NREM 2

Answer 10

Stage 2 sleep in which we spend about half our sleep time. With it’s characteristics sleep spindles.

Question 11

NREM stage 3

Answer 11

Deeper sleep intially lasting 30 minutes but as the sleep cycles go on N3 gets shorter and shorter.