Question

Aaron is asleep. his breathing has become more regular and he is less sensitive to external stimulation. a researcher can confirm that aaron is in stage 2 sleep by looking for ________ on aaron's eegs.

Answer 1

Answer:

K-complexes

Explanation:

Like sleep spindles, K-complexes are defining brainwaves of stage 2 sleep. They differ from sleep spindles in their form. Unlike the rapid burst of activity represented by sleep spindles, K complexes are large waves that react to external stimuli while sleeping.

K-complexes also develop later than sleep spindles. Sleep spindles develop at about 6 weeks of age, while K-complexes do not show up until about 5 months.

K-complexes form as a reaction to external stimuli in the bedroom or outside while a person is asleep. Sleep spindles follow K-complexes as the brain works to stay asleep.

Abnormal K-complex activity is linked with epilepsy, restless legs syndrome (RLS), and obstructive sleep apnea. For example, RLS sufferers experience a higher volume of K-complexes, which typically happen right before the leg movements. This increased K-complex activity may contribute to the less restful sleep associated with restless legs syndrome.