Keeping circadian rhythms synchronized and operating on a 24-hour schedule:
A)is normally impossible because of sleep spindles.
B)involves the detection of sunlight by special photoreceptors in the eye and the communication of this information to the brain.
C)occurs naturally when people are deprived of all time cues.
D)involves the release of the neurotransmitter hypocretin by the hypothalamus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The synchronization of circadian rhythms to a 24-hour schedule involves the detection of sunlight by special photoreceptors in the eye and the communication of this information to the brain. This process helps to regulate the body's internal clock and maintain a consistent sleep/wake schedule. Sleep spindles (option A) are distinct patterns of brain activity that occur during non-REM sleep and are not directly related to the synchronization of circadian rhythms. Deprivation of time cues (option C) can disrupt the body's internal clock and lead to irregular sleep patterns, rather than promoting synchronization. Hypocretin (option D) is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating wakefulness and is not directly involved in the synchronization of circadian rhythms.

Keeping Circadian Rhythms Synchronized and Operating on a 24-Hour Schedule