Brain waves
Brain waves
Brain waves (/breɪn weɪvz/), also known as neural oscillations, are rhythmic or repetitive patterns of neural activity in the central nervous system.
Etymology
The term "brain wave" is derived from the English words "brain", referring to the organ of soft nervous tissue contained in the skull of vertebrates, and "wave", referring to a disturbance or variation that transfers energy progressively from point to point in a medium or in space.
Types of Brain Waves
There are five different types of brain waves, ranging from low to high frequency: Delta waves, Theta waves, Alpha waves, Beta waves, and Gamma waves. Each type of brain wave is associated with different states of brain functioning.
- Delta waves (/ˈdɛltə weɪvz/): These are the slowest type of brain wave that are typically associated with deep, dreamless sleep and regeneration.
- Theta waves (/ˈθiːtə weɪvz/): These brain waves are associated with light sleep, relaxation, and daydreaming.
- Alpha waves (/ˈælfə weɪvz/): These are associated with a relaxed, alert state of mind.
- Beta waves (/ˈbiːtə weɪvz/): These brain waves are associated with active thinking, focus, and concentration.
- Gamma waves (/ˈɡæmə weɪvz/): These are the fastest type of brain wave and are associated with high-level cognitive processing and problem-solving.
Measurement of Brain Waves
Brain waves can be measured using a procedure called an Electroencephalogram (EEG). This non-invasive procedure involves placing electrodes on the scalp to detect electrical activity in the brain. The resulting patterns are then analyzed to determine the type and frequency of the brain waves.
Related Terms
- Neuroscience: The scientific study of the nervous system, including the brain.
- Neuroplasticity: The ability of the brain to change and adapt in response to experience.
- Neurofeedback: A type of biofeedback that uses real-time displays of brain activity to teach self-regulation of brain function.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Brain waves
- Wikipedia's article - Brain waves
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