sleep-wake cycle

American  

[sleep-weyk] / ˈslipˈweɪk /

noun

1. Physiology. the species-specific biological pattern of alternating sleep and wakefulness, in humans roughly 8 hours of nocturnal sleep and 16 hours of daytime activity.

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Example Sentences

It controls the 24-hour sleep-wake cycle and helps regulate key functions such as hormone release, digestion, and body temperature.

From Science Daily

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates the body's sleep-wake cycle.

From Science Daily

So, this carp species does not fall into a fainting state, as it is common in narcolepsy and does not require orexin to regulate their sleep-wake cycle.

From Science Daily

“Daylight exposure synchronizes our internal clock with the external environment, reinforcing our sleep-wake cycle,” he told The Times over email.

From Los Angeles Times

Researchers believe magnesium may reduce cortisol, a stress hormone; increase melatonin, a hormone that promotes the sleep-wake cycle; and help regulate neurotransmitters for the central nervous system, per Medical News Today.

From Salon