Test: Sleep and Consciousness - 1 - MCAT MCQ

Delta waves are associated with deep sleep and are characterized by slow, high-amplitude brainwave patterns. They are commonly observed during stages 3 and 4 of the sleep cycle.

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden, uncontrollable sleep attacks. It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as cataplexy and sleep paralysis.

REM (rapid eye movement) sleep is characterized by vivid dreaming, rapid eye movements, and temporary muscle paralysis. It is a distinct stage of sleep that occurs multiple times throughout the night.

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. It is released in response to darkness and helps promote sleepiness.

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by the persistent difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. It can have various causes, including stress, anxiety, and medical conditions.

The hypothalamus is a brain structure known as the "master clock" because it helps regulate the timing of sleep and wakefulness. It receives input from various sources, including light-sensitive cells in the retina.

Sleep spindles and K-complexes are characteristic brainwave patterns observed during stage 2 of non-REM (NREM) sleep. Sleep spindles are brief bursts of brain activity, while K-complexes are large, high-amplitude waves.

 Night terrors are sleep disorders characterized by recurrent episodes of sudden awakenings, often accompanied by intense fear, panic, or screaming. They typically occur during NREM sleep.

Sleep paralysis is a phenomenon in which a person experiences temporary paralysis upon waking up or falling asleep. It is often accompanied by hallucinations and a sense of pressure on the chest.

Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, occurs during non-REM (NREM) sleep, particularly during stages 3 and 4. It involves complex behaviors, such as walking or performing tasks, while remaining asleep.