4.1.2 (6C) - regulation of sleep-wake patterns

Question 1

Biological rhythms

Answer 1

Repeated biological processes that are regulated by internal mechanisms.

Question 2

Circadian ryhthms

Answer 2

Biological + behavioural changes that occur as part of a cycle that lasts for 24 hours (eg. sleep-wake cycle).

Question 3

Ultradian rhythms

Answer 3

Biological + behavioural changes that occur as part of a cycle that lasts for less than 24 hours (eg. sleep episode, sleep cycle).

Question 4

The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN)

Answer 4

Area of the hypothalamus responsible for regulating sleep-wake patterns.
- Internal + external cues.

Question 5

Melatonin

Answer 5

Hormone released from the pineal glands (typically at night time) to induce sleep as part of the sleep-wake cycle.
= drowsiness = tiredness to make you more sleepy.

Question 6

Cortisol

Answer 6

Hormone released from the adrenal glands responsible for increasing alertness + maintaining heightened arousal.