Final answer:
Apnea is the term that describes the absence or cessation of breathing, which can be a transient condition during sleep or a symptom of different medical issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that refers to the absence or cessation of breathing is apnea. Apnea is characterized by brief or extended periods during which breathing stops. It can occur during sleep, known as sleep apnea, or it might happen while awake due to various medical conditions. The options provided for the question are:
- Dyspnea: Difficulty or labored breathing.
- Apnea: A cessation of breathing.
- Tachypnea: An abnormally rapid breathing rate.
- Hyperpnea: An increased depth and rate of breathing, typically in response to an increased oxygen demand, as seen in exercise or some diseases.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is b) Apnea.