What Makes You Tick: Circadian Rhythms

What are circadian rhythms?

• 24-hour cycles of biological processes.

• A type of alarm clock.

• A way to measure time.

• Only sleep and wake cycles.

Which cells in the eye help regulate circadian rhythms?

• Rod and cone cells.

• Neuronal cells.

• Photosensitive ganglion cells of the retina.

• Muscle cells.

What is the name of the "master clock" of the brain that coordinates circadian rhythms?

• Suprachiasmatic nucleus.

• Pineal gland.

• Cerebellum.

• Cerebral cortex.

What can happen when the brain's "master clock" is confused by too much or too little light?

• Thinking ability improves.

• The rhythm of the cells is disrupted.

• Production of stress hormones increases.

• The body becomes more active.

What serious diseases may be associated with circadian rhythm disorders?

• Cold and flu.

• Cancer, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and depression.

• Allergies and asthma.

• Headaches and fatigue.