On the cellular level, sleep occurs because of
A) hyperpolarization of the cells of the thalamus and cortex.
B) depolarization of the cells of the thalamus and cortex.
C) increased synaptic input between axons and neurons in the thalamus and cortex.
D) desynchronization of electrical impulses in the cortex.
E) decreased opening of potassium and calcium channels in the membranes of cortical cells.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During sleep, there is hyperpolarization of the cells of the thalamus and cortex, meaning that the membrane potential becomes more negative, making it more difficult for the cell to fire an action potential. This is in contrast to depolarization, which would make it more likely for a cell to fire an action potential. The other answer choices are not accurate descriptions of what occurs on the cellular level during sleep.

On the Cellular Level, Sleep Occurs Because of