Sleep-Wake Cycle Flashcards
1
Q
Circadian Rhythm
A
24-hour bodily cycle
Controls nocturnal hormone release (melatonin)
1
Q
Sleep-Wake Cycle
A
Recurring pattern of wakefulness and sleep that individuals go through daily
Measured by recording times of regular events (eating, sleeping)
2
Q
Circadian Rhythm (Body Clock) Location
A
Suprachiasmatic Nucleus (SCN)
Pair of distinct group of cells in hypothalamus
3
Q
Suprachiasmatic Nucleus Function
A
Controls melatonin production
When there is less light, SCN tells brain to produce more melatonin so that you feel sleepy
4
Q
Number of Sleep Cycles
A
4-6 sleep cycles
Approx. 90 minutes per cycle
5
Q
Cycle is regulated by…
A
- Circadian Rhythm
- Body temperature
- Metabolic rate
- Hormones like melatonin
