Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the electroencephalogram (EEG) in sleep research?

Accepted Answer

To detect global neural electrical activity by attaching electrodes to the scalp

Question 2

During which stage of sleep are delta waves most prominent, and what is a key characteristic of this stage?

Accepted Answer

N3; characterized by deep sleep and slow, synchronized delta brain waves

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is primarily responsible for activating the system that helps us fall asleep, and what common substance blocks its receptors?

Accepted Answer

Adenosine; caffeine

Question 4

A person is woken up and feels confused and disoriented. Based on sleep stages, from which stage were they most likely awakened?

Accepted Answer

N3

Question 5

Which of the following best explains the 'paradoxical' nature of REM sleep?

Accepted Answer

The brain shows activity similar to wakefulness, but the body is temporarily paralyzed

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a recommended strategy for improving sleep quality?

Accepted Answer

Using bright screens for at least half an hour before sleep

Question 7

According to the information-processing theory, what is the main function of dreaming?

Accepted Answer

To process information and think creatively about ongoing life events

Question 8

Which brain structure is primarily responsible for regulating circadian rhythms in humans?

Accepted Answer

Superchiasmatic nucleus (SCN)

Question 9

A student consistently feels tired during the day, falls asleep within 5 minutes of lying down, and struggles to wake up in the morning. Which of the following is the most likely explanation?

Accepted Answer

They are experiencing sleep deprivation

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the difference between alpha and beta brain waves?

Accepted Answer

Alpha waves are higher in amplitude and indicate a calm, relaxed brain; beta waves are lower in amplitude and indicate an active, alert brain

Question 11

Which of the following is a real-world consequence of disrupting circadian rhythms, such as through shift work or jet lag?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of health problems and impaired cognitive function

Question 12

If a person is experiencing frequent muscle jerks and the sensation of falling as they drift off to sleep, which stage are they most likely in?

Accepted Answer

N1 (lightest sleep)

Question 13

Which of the following statements about sleep cycles is correct?

Accepted Answer

A typical night includes 3-5 cycles, each including REM and non-REM stages

Question 14

Which of the following is a function of sleep supported by research?

Accepted Answer

Sleep helps consolidate memories and clear waste from the brain

Question 15

A person who is temporarily paralyzed and unable to regulate body temperature is most likely in which stage of sleep?

Accepted Answer

REM

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the activation-synthesis theory of dreaming?

Accepted Answer

Dreams are the brain's attempt to make sense of random neural firing during sleep

Question 17

If a person wants to optimize their alertness and productivity based on their chronotype, which strategy is most effective?

Accepted Answer

Aligning important tasks with their peak alertness times according to their chronotype

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the relationship between sleep quantity and sleep quality?

Accepted Answer

Quality of sleep, including completing all stages, is as important as quantity

Question 19

Which of the following neurotransmitters is NOT primarily associated with keeping us awake?

Accepted Answer

Adenosine

Question 20

A patient is diagnosed with sleepwalking. During which stage of sleep is this behavior most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

N3 (deep sleep)

Sleep: Stages, Brain Waves, and Biological Rhythms in Psychology

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