Biological Rhythms Definitons

Question 1

What is a biological rhythm?

Answer 1

Biological rhythms are changes in biological activity that show regular cyclical variation over time

Question 2

Define circadian rhythms

Answer 2

last about 24 hours. These include metabolic changes including temperature heart respiration and metabolism over this period, but the most studied circadian rhythm is the sleep-waking cycle.

Question 3

Define infradian rhythm

Answer 3

last more than on day e.g. women’s 28 day menstrual cycle.

Question 4

Define ultradian rhythms

Answer 4

last less than one day e.g. the stages if sleep follow a pattern of cycles lasting about 90 minutes

Question 5

Define Endogenous Pacemakers

Answer 5

They are internal body clocks that are created from within. they show periodicity and help to regulate and control other systems

Question 6

Define Exogenous Zeitgebers

Answer 6

They are external cues from outside the body which are also important in maintaining bodily rhythms. Light and dark is an important zeitgeber for both animals and plants. Bodily rhythms show a similar daily pattern for people with different lifestyles. Much of the research (particulalry for circadian rhythms) focuses on the interaction between endogenous pacemakers and exogenous zeitgebers.