Can you be awake and asleep at the same time? | Masako Tamaki

The video explores asymmetrical sleep, where one brain hemisphere is more active than the other. This phenomenon is observed in various animals, including dolphins, seals, and birds, allowing them to remain alert while resting. Dolphins and seals use unihemispheric sleep to continue swimming and breathing. Birds, like frigatebirds, sleep during long migrations. The benefits of asymmetrical sleep vary across species. In humans, a subtle form of asymmetrical sleep occurs during the first night in a new place, enhancing vigilance. This adaptation helps animals and humans stay alert to potential threats.

What is asymmetrical sleep?

• A phenomenon where animals do not sleep at all.

• A state where both brain hemispheres are fully awake.

• A condition where one hemisphere of the brain is asleep while the other is active.

• A type of sleep where the entire brain is in deep sleep.

How do dolphins manage to sleep while staying alert?

• They sleep only during the night.

• They sleep with both hemispheres of the brain at the same time.

• They do not sleep at all.

• They sleep with one hemisphere at a time, allowing them to swim and breathe.

Why do fur seals sleep unihemispherically?

• To stay alert to threats from the depths while migrating at sea.

• To conserve energy while on land.

• To synchronize with the tides.

• To avoid predators on the shore.

How do mallard ducks use asymmetrical sleep?

• By not sleeping at all.

• By sleeping only during the day.

• By keeping their outward-facing eye open and corresponding hemisphere active.

• By sleeping with both eyes closed.

What unique sleep adaptation do frigatebirds have during migration?

• They sleep for long hours without interruption.

• They sleep with both hemispheres simultaneously.

• They sleep in short bursts while riding air currents.

• They do not sleep during migration.

What is the 'first night effect' in humans?

• A subtle form of asymmetrical sleep where one hemisphere is more active.

• A phenomenon where humans sleep deeply in new environments.

• A condition where humans do not sleep at all on the first night.

• A state where both hemispheres are equally active.

Why might humans experience asymmetrical sleep in unfamiliar environments?

• To avoid jet lag.

• To ensure they get more rest.

• To remain vigilant and alert to potential threats.

• To synchronize with local time zones.