sleep and the brain
This brain structure contains the SCN, the body’s biological clock.
hypothalamus
This hormone is released by the pineal gland and regulates biological rhythms.
melatonin
This theory suggests sleep restores energy used during the day.
restorative theory
Humans spend about this fraction of their lives sleeping.
one-third
This part of the brain helps regulate REM sleep.
pons
These two hormones secreted by the pituitary regulate reproduction
FSH and LH
This perspective explains sleep as evolving through natural selection.
evolutionary psychology
These two mechanisms regulate sleep timing.
circadian and homeostatic mechanisms
This structure works with the hypothalamus to regulate slow-wave sleep.
thalamus
This hormone released during sleep supports growth and metabolism.
growth hormone
This theory suggests sleep helps us avoid predators at night.
adaptive theory
This type of sleep improves performance after learning a new task.
slow-wave sleep
This technique records brain activity to distinguish sleep phases.
electroencephalography (EEG)
This gland releases melatonin during sleep.
pineal gland
This occurs when a sleep-deprived person falls asleep faster later.
sleep rebound
Rats can die after about this long without sleep.
two weeks
This specific nucleus inside the hypothalamus acts as the body’s biological clock.
suprachiasmatic nucleus
This gland secretes FSH, LH, and growth hormone during sleep
pituitary gland
Research shows sleep is important for this mental process, especially after learning.
memory formation
Lack of sleep can impair attention, decision-making, and this memory type.
long-term memory