Sleep-wake cycle
Sleep-wake cycle
The Sleep-wake cycle (pronunciation: /ˈsliːp weɪk ˈsaɪkəl/) is a daily pattern that determines when it's time to sleep and when it's time to be awake. It is one of the many bodily rhythms regulated by the circadian rhythm.
Etymology
The term "Sleep-wake cycle" is derived from the English words "sleep" and "wake", referring to the states of sleeping and waking, and "cycle", which refers to a series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order.
Definition
The sleep-wake cycle is a 24-hour cycle that is part of the body's internal clock, running in the background to carry out functions and processes. It is also known as the circadian rhythm. This cycle alternates between sleepiness and alertness at regular intervals. This rhythm is controlled by a part of the brain called the hypothalamus. Other factors that can influence the sleep-wake cycle include light exposure and melatonin, a hormone that makes you sleepy.
Related Terms
- Circadian rhythm: The physical, mental, and behavioral changes in the body that follow a roughly 24-hour cycle, responding primarily to light and darkness in an organism's environment.
- Hypothalamus: A region of the brain that controls an immense number of bodily functions. It is responsible for the direct control of the endocrine system through the pituitary gland.
- Melatonin: A hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. It is primarily released by the pineal gland and its production is influenced by the detection of light and dark by the retina of the eye.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sleep-wake cycle
- Wikipedia's article - Sleep-wake cycle
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