biological clock

the mechanism within an organism that controls the periodicity of biological rhythms, including activity rhythms, even in the absence of any external cues. For example, a bird housed in constant light will continue to show patterns of activity and rest with approximately 24-hour rhythms due to the action of the biological clock. A biological clock in mammals is located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus. Molecular mechanisms of the circadian rhythm are the same in insects and mammals. Also called internal clock.

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Psychology term of the day

January 12th 2025

inferior colliculus

either of the caudal pair of colliculi. They receive and process auditory nerve impulses and relay these to the medial geniculate nuclei.