Assess your learning by answering these questions based on material from the other sections in this Circadian Rhythms unit.
What are the three main components of the circadian system model and what function does each component have?
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The three main components of the circadian system model are the 1) input pathway, 2) the oscillator, and 3) the output pathway. First, the input pathway receives the stimulus that resets the biological clock. Next, the central oscillator functions as a pacemaker. Finally, the output pathway translates the oscillator's on/off states to a biological behavior or pattern.
The "master circadian pacemaker" is located in what structure of the mammalian brain?
A. Suprachiasmatic nucleus
B. Pineal gland
C. Preganglionic sympathetic neurons
D. Optic chiasma
E. Visual cortex
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Correct answer: A
Which of the following descriptions does not apply to circadian rhythmicity?
A. A process that can be found in bacteria, plants, fungi, and animals
B. A process that cycles in intervals of approximately 24 hours
C. A process that is rhythmic only in the presence of environmental cycles
D. A process that can be synchronized by environmental cycles
E. A process that can be disrupted by prolonged exposure to constant darkness
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Correct answer: C
The molecular mechanism responsible for circadian rhythmicity can best be characterized as:
A. Being part of the cell cycle
B. Consisting of a single transcriptional loop
C. Consisting of a single translational loop
D. Multiple nerve firings
E. Consisting of one or more activation/inhibition loops
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Correct answer: E
A persistent phase delay of the internal clock is most likely the cause of which of these disorders?
A. Sleep Apnea
B. Nightmare Disorder
C. Narcolepsy
D. Sleep-onset insomnia
E. Restless Leg Syndrome
