Question

Brain wave amplitude ________?

1) reflects the number of neurons firing synchronously
2) is an average of about 1 V
3) results from subtraction of delta waves from theta waves
4) is the measure of activity of specific individual neurons

Answer 1

Brain wave amplitude indicates the synchrony of neuronal firing, not the activity of individual neurons or the subtraction of certain waves. It is essential in distinguishing the stages of NREM sleep and plays a role in learning and memory.

Step-by-step explanation:

The amplitude of brain waves reflects the number of neurons firing synchronously. Brain wave amplitude is not an average of about 1 V, nor is it the result of the subtraction of delta waves from theta waves, and it does not measure the activity of specific individual neurons. Instead, the amplitude correlates with the synchronicity of neuronal firing—when more neurons fire together, the amplitude increases.

In the context of sleep, brain wave patterns are unique to different sleep stages. Stage 1 NREM sleep is associated with alpha and theta waves, with the transition showing less frequency and higher amplitude than the beta waves of wakefulness. As we move into stage 2 NREM sleep, theta waves are interspersed with sleep spindles and K-complexes, indicating deeper sleep and signifying brain activity that may be crucial for learning and memory.