Question

ap psychology: biology & behavior

1. what is a hypnagogic sensation?
2. what happens to the body in deep sleep?
3. compare and contrast alpha waves vs. delta waves.
4. why is rem sleep referred to as paradoxical sleep?
5. how does the suprachiasmatic nucleus and melatonin contribute to sleep?

module 1.5c: sleep loss, sleep disorders, and dreams

1. name three effects of sleep deprivation.

Explanation:

1. Hypnagogic sensations occur as one is falling asleep and can include vivid imagery, muscle - twitches, and a feeling of floating.
2. In deep sleep, heart rate and breathing slow, muscles relax, and the body repairs tissues and strengthens the immune system.
3. Alpha waves are present when one is relaxed and awake with eyes closed, while delta waves are associated with deep sleep and have a lower frequency and higher amplitude.
4. REM sleep is called paradoxical sleep because the brain is active (similar to being awake) while the body's muscles are paralyzed.
5. The suprachiasmatic nucleus is the body's internal clock that regulates the sleep - wake cycle. It signals the release of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep.
6. Three effects of sleep deprivation can be impaired cognitive function, mood disturbances (such as irritability), and weakened immune system.

Answer:

1. Sensations occurring as one falls asleep, like vivid imagery or muscle - twitches.
2. Heart rate and breathing slow, muscles relax, tissue repair and immune system strengthening occur.
3. Alpha waves are for relaxed wakefulness with eyes closed; delta waves are for deep sleep with lower frequency and higher amplitude.
4. Because the brain is active but body muscles are paralyzed.
5. The suprachiasmatic nucleus is the internal clock and signals melatonin release which promotes sleep.
6. Impaired cognitive function, mood disturbances, weakened immune system.