Jim has just taken a flight from Vancouver to Halifax, which is a four-hour time difference. He finds he falls asleep easily when he arrives, but when he wakes up the next morning at 8:00 a.m., he is exhausted as it feels like 4:00 a.m. to him. What is the likely source of disruption to Jim's circadian rhythm?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The likely source of disruption to Jim's circadian rhythm is jet lag, which occurs when a person's internal clock is disrupted due to crossing time zones. This can result in difficulty falling asleep or staying awake at the appropriate times, as well as feelings of fatigue and exhaustion. Melatonin drift may also occur as a result of jet lag, but jet lag is the more appropriate answer given the specific details provided in the scenario. Sleep paralysis and insomnia are not relevant to Jim's situation.

Jim Has Just Taken a Flight from Vancouver to Halifax