Instructor Terry Wiseth
Start Lab
WHAT DO I NEED TO HAND
IN FOR THIS LAB?
1) Data Table for Brain Waves
2) Answers to
Questions
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Click here to view a printable
DATA TABLE for Brain Waves
Click here to begin collecting
data for this lab
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
Click here to view a printable
list of QUESTIONS for Brain
Waves
Click here to view the
INTRODUCTION
Click on the
Blackboard to view
a larger blackboard
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
The presence of electrical current in the
brain was discovered by an English
physician, Richard Caton, in 1875. It was
not until 1924 that Hans Berger, a German
neurologist, used his ordinary radio
equipment to amplify the brain's electrical
activity so that- he could record it on graph
paper. Berger noticed that rhythmic
changes (brain waves) varied with the
individual's state of consciousness. The
various regions of the brain do not emit
the same brain wave frequency
simultaneously.
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
An EEG electrode placed on the scalp
would pick up many waves with different
characteristics. This has presented a great
deal of difficulty to researchers trying to
interpret the large amount of data they
receive from even one EEG recording.
Brain waves have
been categorized into
four basic groups: Alpha, Beta, Theta, and
Delta waves. Although none of these
waves is ever emitted alone, the state of
consciousness of the individual may make
one frequency more pronounced
than the others.
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
You may have seen doctors in hospitals or
on television taking EEG readings of the
natural and ongoing electrical activity of a
person's brain. This activity is produced
by all of us all the time and it varies
according to what kind of activity we are
engaged in. It can
be recorded by sensors
that are gently placed on the head. A
geodesic sensor net, which looks a bit like
a hairnet with lots of little sponges
attached to it can be used to acquire this
electrical activity. The net contains 64
sensors, which are all sewn together.
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
Brain waves are obtained from a special
analysis of EEG. These brain waves show
us the brain's response to a particular
stimulus or external event, such as a
picture or sound. Brain activity before,
during, and after a stimulus presentation
is recorded. This
allows us to observe
where, when, and how the brain responds
to a given stimulus.
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
Any physiological investigation of the
brain can emphasize and expose only a
very minute portion of its activity. Higher
brain functions, such as consciousness
and logical reasoning, are extremely
difficult to investigate.
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
It is obviously much easier to do
experiments on the brain’s input-output
functions, some of which can be detected
with appropriate recording equipment.
Still, the ability to record brain activity
does not necessarily guarantee an
understanding- of the brain. Certain
characteristics of brain waves are known.
They have a frequency of 1 to 30 hertz (Hz)
or cycles per second, a dominant rhythm
of 10 Hz and an average amplitude
(voltage) of 20 to 100 microvolts (uV).
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
Frequency is the number of times a wave
repeats itself within a second. It can be
compared to the frequencies that you tune
into on your radio. If any of these
frequencies are deficient, excessive, or
difficult to access, our mental performance
can suffer.
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Amplitude represents the power of
electrical impulses generated by brain. A
wave can be of high or low amplitude
(voltage) and high or low
frequency (regularity).
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
The first of the brain waves to be
described by scientists were the Alpha
Waves (or alpha rhythm). Alpha waves
have an average frequency range of 8 to
13 Hz and are produced when the
individual is in a relaxed state with the
eyes closed. Alpha
block, suppression of
the alpha rhythm, occurs if the eyes are
opened or if the individual begins to
concentrate on some mental problem or
visual stimulus. Under these conditions,
the waves decrease in amplitude but
increase in frequency. Under conditions of
fright or excitement, the
Next
Previous
frequency increases still more.
Skip Intro End Lab
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Beta Waves, closely related to alpha
waves, are faster, 14 to 30 Hz and have a
lower amplitude. They are typical of the
attentive or alert state.
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
Very large (high-amplitude) waves with a
frequency of less
than 4 Hz that are seen
in deep sleep are Delta Waves.
Monitor
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
Theta Waves are large, abnormally
contoured waves with a frequency of 4 to 7
Hz. Although theta waves are normal in
children, they represent emotional
problems or some sort of neural
imbalance in adults.
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Gamma Waves, are brain waves larger
than 30 Hz. These waves predominate
during periods of times we are “thinking”.
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Click here to learn more
about Delta Waves
Click here to learn more
about Theta Waves
Click here to learn more
about Alpha Waves
Click here to learn more
about Beta Waves
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
Click here to learn more
about Gamma Waves
In normal adults who are awake, the EEG
shows mostly Alpha waves and Beta
waves. In abnormal adults the EEG shows
sudden bursts of electrical activity
(spikes) or sudden slowing of brain waves.
These abnormal discharges may be
caused by a brain
tumor, infection, injury,
stroke, or epilepsy. When a person has
epilepsy, the location and exact pattern of
the abnormal brain waves may help
determine what type of epilepsy or
seizures the person has. Keep in mind that
in many people with epilepsy, the EEG
may appear completely
Next
Previous
normal
between seizures.
Skip Intro
End Lab
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
A disorder affecting the entire brain, such
as drug intoxication, certain infections, or
metabolic disorders that upset the
chemical balance in the body, including
the brain, may produce abnormal brain
waves. In these abnormalities the EEG
shows delta waves
or an excess of theta
waves in adults who are awake. These
results may indicate brain injury.
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
If the EEG shows no electrical activity in
the brain (a "flat" or "straight-line"). This
indicates that brain function has stopped,
which is usually caused by lack of oxygen
or blood flow inside the brain. In some
cases, severe drug-induced sedation can
produce a flat EEG.
This state also can be
seen in status epilepticus after a
significant amount of medication is given
to control the seizure. A person who has a
flat EEG for more than 6 hours is usually
considered brain dead, unless heavily
sedated with medications.
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
Brain waves change with age, sensory
stimuli, brain pathology or disease.
Glucose deprivation, oxygen poisoning
and sedatives all interfere with the
rhythmic activity of brain output by
disturbing the metabolism of the neurons.
Sleeping individuals
and patients in a
coma have EEGs that are slower (or lower
frequency) than the alpha rhythm of
normal adults. Fright, epileptic seizures,
and various types of drug intoxication are
associated with faster brain activity.
Impairment of brain function is indicated
by neuronal activity that is
Next
Previous
either too fast or too slow.
Skip Intro End Lab
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
We are now ready to begin the lab. You will
be assigned a subject who will perform
various mental activities for you. You will
be using a device which will be able to
record the brain waves of your subject
while they are performing the mental
tasks. You will - need to record the mental
activities attempted and sketch and
identify the brain waves which are
recorded. You will also
need to answer questions
on your data collected.
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
WHAT DO I NEED TO HAND
IN FOR THIS LAB?
1) Data Table for Brain Waves
2) Answers to
Questions
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
Power
Stop Recording
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Click here to view a printable
DATA TABLE for Brain Waves
Click here to begin collecting
data for this lab
Next
Previous
Skip Intro
End Lab
Click here to view a printable
list of QUESTIONS for Brain
Waves
Click here to view the
INTRODUCTION again
When
subject is
Click your
on your
seated
and
have
subject
toyou
seat
instructed him to sit
your subject and
quietly and read, click
start
the procedure
on NEXT
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
Now
on the
Next click
connect
the NEXT
EEG
button
thetobottom
of
sensor at
box
the data
the
page unit. Click
acquisition
on the blue cord
leading from the EEG
sensor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
Now
Next click on the RED
power
button
theon
NEURAL
HAT on
lying
Data
Acquisition
the desk
to placeUnit
on to
start
your subjects head
collecting
data
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
When
has been
Clickdata
on the
green
collected
for 30 seconds
START RECORDING
you can click on the monitor
button and collect data
to zoom in on the data
for 30 sec
image
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
Sketch the brain waves
shown here in the data table
in the row provided for the
appropriate activity of your
subject
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
Power
Stop Recording
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Monitor
Next
Previous
End Lab
Click here to learn
more about this type
of brain wave
Click here to View
the Data Table
For the next part of the lab
we will collect data when
our subject has their eyes
closed and is relaxed. Click
on NEXT
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
Instruct
Next
click
your
on
the
RED
Now
Click
on subject
NEXT
attopower
the
close their
button
on
eyes
Data
and relax.
bottom
of the
page
You can do this
Acquisition
Unitby clicking
on the subject
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
When
has been
Clickdata
on the
green
collected
for 30 seconds
START RECORDING
you can click on the monitor
button and collect data
to zoom in on the data
for 30 sec
image
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
Sketch the brain waves
shown here in the data table
in the row provided for the
appropriate activity of your
subject
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
Power
Stop Recording
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Monitor
Next
Previous
End Lab
Click here to learn
more about this type
of brain wave
Click here to View
the Data Table
For the next part of the lab
we will collect data when
our subject is given a very
complex problem. Click on
NEXT
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
5 + 6 X 45 – 35 + 22 X 31
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
Recite
thison
math
problem
Now
Next
Click
click
on
the
NEXT
RED
at power
the to
your subject.
button
bottom
on
of the You
page
Datacan do
this by clicking
Acquisition
Uniton the
subject
When
has been
Clickdata
on the
green
collected
for 30 seconds
START RECORDING
you can click on the monitor
button and collect data
to zoom in on the data
for 30 sec
image
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
Sketch the brain waves
shown here in the data table
in the row provided for the
appropriate activity of your
subject
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
Power
Stop Recording
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Monitor
Next
Previous
End Lab
Click here to learn
more about this type
of brain wave
Click here to View
the Data Table
For the next part of the lab
we will collect data when
our subject is given an
emotionally distressing
note. Click
on NEXT
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
Give Click
your
a at the
Now
Next
click subject
on
on the
NEXT
RED
distressing
note.
YouData
can
power
bottom
button
of the
on
page
the
do this by clicking
Acquisition
Unit on the
subject
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Next
Previous
End Lab
EEG
Sensor
When
has been
Clickdata
on the
green
collected
for 30 seconds
START RECORDING
you can click on the monitor
button and collect data
to zoom in on the data
for 30 sec
image
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Monitor
Power
Stop Recording
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
EEG
Sensor
BAD
NEWS
Next
Previous
End Lab
Sketch the brain waves
shown here in the data table
in the row provided for the
appropriate activity of your
subject
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
Power
Stop Recording
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Monitor
Next
Previous
End Lab
Click here to learn
more about this type
of brain wave
Click here to View
the Data Table
This is the end of the BRAIN WAVE LAB.
Be sure that you include in your lab report
the following listed items.
1) Brain Wave Data Table
2) Answers to Questions
Monitor
DATA
ACQUISITION
UNIT
Stimulator Recording
Outputs
Inputs
Power
Stop Recording
+
1
-
2
Start Recording
EEG
Sensor
Click here to view a printable
DATA TABLE for Brain Waves
Click here if you would
like to review the
INTRODUCTION
Next
Previous
End Lab
Click here to view a printable
list of QUESTIONS for Brain
Waves
If you are finished with
this lab you can click
here to END the lab
Click here to start the DATA
COLLECTION again
END LAB
BRAIN WAVE DATA TABLE
Activity
Sketch of Brain Waves
Type of
Brain Wave
Eyes
Closed
Relaxed
Quiet
Reading
Difficult
Mental
Activity
Emotionally
Stressed
Click for a printable
DATA TABLE
Click here
to Return
BRAIN WAVE DATA TABLE
Activity
Sketch of Brain Waves
Type of
Brain Wave
Eyes
Closed
Relaxed
Quiet
Reading
Difficult
Mental
Activity
Emotionally
Stressed
Click for a printable
DATA TABLE
Click here
to Return
BRAIN WAVE DATA TABLE
Activity
Sketch of Brain Waves
Type of
Brain Wave
Eyes
Closed
Relaxed
Quiet
Reading
Difficult
Mental
Activity
Emotionally
Stressed
Click for a printable
DATA TABLE
Click here
to Return
BRAIN WAVE DATA TABLE
Activity
Sketch of Brain Waves
Type of
Brain Wave
Eyes
Closed
Relaxed
Quiet
Reading
Difficult
Mental
Activity
Emotionally
Stressed
Click for a printable
DATA TABLE
Click here
to Return
QUESTIONS FOR BRAIN WAVE LAB
1) Describe the difference between amplitude
and frequency in regards to brain waves.
2) Describe the brain waves of an individual
who is “brain dead”.
3) List the dominant brain wave we would find
in individuals performing the following
activities:
a) Sleeping
b) Under Stress
c) Relaxing with eyes open
d) Concentrating
Click for a printable
QUESTIONS list
Click here
to Return
INTRO WAVE INFO
DELTA WAVES
The lowest frequencies are DELTA
These are less than 4 Hz
Occur in deep sleep and in some abnormal
processes
Delta waves increase during sleep in the
normal adult
As people move from lighter to deeper
stages of sleep, the occurrence of alpha
waves diminishes and is gradually replaced
by the lower frequency theta and then delta
rhythms
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Delta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
DELTA WAVES
Delta waves may increase during difficult
mental activities requiring concentration
We increase Delta waves in order to
decrease our awareness of the physical
world
We also access information in our
unconscious mind through Delta
Peak performers decrease Delta waves when
high focus and peak performance are
required
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Delta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
DELTA WAVES
However, most individuals diagnosed with
Attention Deficit Disorder, naturally increase
rather than decrease Delta activity when
trying to focus
The inappropriate Delta response often
severely restricts the ability to focus and
maintain attention
It is as if the brain is locked into a perpetual
drowsy state
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Delta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
DELTA WAVES
It is the dominant rhythm in infants up to one
year of age and it is present in stages 3 and 4
of sleep
Another way to look at Delta is to imagine
you are driving in a car and you shift into 1st
gear....you're not going to get anywhere very
fast
So Delta would represent 1st gear
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Return to Intro
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Gamma Waves
THETA WAVES
As calmness and relaxation deepen into
drowsiness, the brain shifts to slower, more
powerfully rhythmic waves with a frequency
of about 4 -7 Hz
low-frequency EEG patterns that increase
during sleep in the normal adult
Theta has been associated with access to
unconscious material, creative inspiration
and deep meditation
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Theta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
THETA WAVES
As people move from lighter to deeper
stages of sleep (prior to REM sleep), the
occurrence of alpha waves diminishes and is
gradually replaced by the lower frequency
theta and then delta rhythms
theta waves will occur for brief intervals
during emotional responses to frustrating
events or situations
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Theta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
THETA WAVES
Everyone generates these theta waves at
least twice per day: in those fleeting instants
when we drift from conscious drowsiness
into sleep, and again when we rise from
sleep to consciousness as we awaken
The theta state is accompanied by
unexpected, unpredictable, dreamlike but
very vivid mental images
Often these startlingly real images are
accompanied by intense memories,
particularly childhood memories
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Theta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
THETA WAVES
Theta offers access to unconscious material,
reverie, free association, sudden insight,
creative inspiration
It is a mysterious, elusive state, potentially
highly productive and enlightening, but
experimenters have had a difficult time
studying it, and it is hard to maintain, since
people tend to fall asleep as soon as soon as
they begin generating large amounts of theta
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Theta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
THETA WAVES
It is seen in connection with creativity,
intuition, daydreaming, and fantasizing and
is a repository for memories, emotions,
sensations
Theta waves are strong during internal focus,
meditation, prayer, and spiritual awareness
It reflects the state between wakefulness and
sleep
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Theta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
THETA WAVES
Theta appears as consciousness slips
toward drowsiness
It is abnormal in awake adults but is perfectly
normal in children up to 13 years old
It is also normal during sleep
Back to our car example, Theta would be
considered 2nd gear. Not as slow as 1st gear
(Delta) but still not very fast
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Return to Intro
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Gamma Waves
ALPHA WAVES
As the brain waves slow down they take on a
more coherent rhythm, and can be seen on
the EEG as a regular saw-tooth pattern at
about 8 - 12 Hz
Alpha is the most prominent rhythm in the
whole realm of brain activity
Alpha appears to bridge the conscious to the
subconscious
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Alpha Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
ALPHA WAVES
Alpha is a common state for the brain and
occurs whenever a person is alert but not
actively processing information
It is reduced or eliminated by opening the
eyes, by hearing unfamiliar sounds, by
anxiety or mental concentration
These waves are often present when the
brain is alert but unfocused, and most people
generate alpha waves when their eyes are
closed, even if only bursts of one or two
seconds
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Alpha Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
ALPHA WAVES
Frequently, alpha waves are associated with
feelings of relaxation and calmness
A receptive mind
Good healthy alpha production promotes
mental resourcefulness, aids in the ability to
mentally coordinate, enhances overall sense
of relaxation and fatigue
In this state you can move quickly and
efficiently to accomplish whatever task is at
hand
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Alpha Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
ALPHA WAVES
When Alpha predominates most people feel
at ease and calm
Alpha has been linked to extroversion
(introverts show less), creativity (creative
subjects show alpha when listening and
coming to a solution for creative problems),
and mental work
When your alpha is with in normal ranges we
tend to also experience good moods, see the
world truthfully, and have a sense of
calmness
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Alpha Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
ALPHA WAVES
Alpha is one of the brain's most important
frequency to learn and use information
taught in the classroom and on the job
You can increase alpha by closing your eyes
or deep breathing or decrease alpha by
thinking or calculating
alpha wave amplitudes are likely to be higher
in "outgoing" subjects
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Alpha Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
ALPHA WAVES
Alpha rhythms are reported to be derived
from the white matter of the brain
The white matter can be considered the part
of the brain that connects all parts with each
other
In our car scenario, Alpha would represent
neutral or idle
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Return to Intro
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Gamma Waves
BETA WAVES
frequency is about 13-30 Hz
it is in what is called its waking rhythm
The brain is focusing on the world outside
itself, or dealing with concrete, specific
problems
Beta activity is 'fast' activity
It is generally regarded as a normal rhythm
and is the dominant rhythm in those who are
alert or anxious or who have their eyes open
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Beta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
BETA WAVES
It is the state that most of brain is in when we
have our eyes open and are listening and
thinking during analytical problem solving,
judgment, decision making, processing
information about the world around us
Beta is the usual waking rhythm of the brain
associated with active thinking, active
attention, focus on the outside world or
solving concrete problems
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Beta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
BETA WAVES
Beta rhythms occur in individuals who are
alert and attentive to external stimuli or exert
specific mental effort
beta rhythms also occur during deep sleep
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Beta Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
BETA WAVES
the beta wave represents arousal of the
cortex to a higher state of alertness or
tension
It may also be associated with
"remembering" or retrieving memories
Beta would represent overdrive or hyperdrive in our car scenario
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Return to Intro
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Gamma Waves
GAMMA WAVES
Gamma is measured between 36 44 (Hz)
When the brain needs to simultaneously
process information from different areas, its
hypothesized that Gamma wave activity
consolidates the required areas for
simultaneous processing
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Next Page (more about Gamma Waves)
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Return to Intro
Gamma Waves
GAMMA WAVES
A good memory is associated with wellregulated and efficient Gamma waves
whereas Gamma wave deficiency creates
learning disabilities
Gamma waves predominate when we are
“thinking”
Previous Page
Theta Waves
Return to Intro
Beta Waves
Alpha Waves
Delta Waves
Gamma Waves
LAB WAVE INFO
DELTA WAVES
The lowest frequencies are DELTA
These are less than 4 Hz
Occur in deep sleep and in some abnormal
processes
Delta waves increase during sleep in the
normal adult
As people move from lighter to deeper
stages of sleep, the occurrence of alpha
waves diminishes and is gradually replaced
by the lower frequency theta and then delta
rhythms
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
DELTA WAVES
Delta waves may increase during difficult
mental activities requiring concentration
We increase Delta waves in order to
decrease our awareness of the physical
world
We also access information in our
unconscious mind through Delta
Peak performers decrease Delta waves when
high focus and peak performance are
required
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
DELTA WAVES
However, most individuals diagnosed with
Attention Deficit Disorder, naturally increase
rather than decrease Delta activity when
trying to focus
The inappropriate Delta response often
severely restricts the ability to focus and
maintain attention
It is as if the brain is locked into a perpetual
drowsy state
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
DELTA WAVES
It is the dominant rhythm in infants up to one
year of age and it is present in stages 3 and 4
of sleep
Another way to look at Delta is to imagine
you are driving in a car and you shift into 1st
gear....you're not going to get anywhere very
fast
So Delta would represent 1st gear
Previous Page
Return to Lab
THETA WAVES
As calmness and relaxation deepen into
drowsiness, the brain shifts to slower, more
powerfully rhythmic waves with a frequency
of about 4 -7 Hz
low-frequency EEG patterns that increase
during sleep in the normal adult
Theta has been associated with access to
unconscious material, creative inspiration
and deep meditation
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
THETA WAVES
As people move from lighter to deeper
stages of sleep (prior to REM sleep), the
occurrence of alpha waves diminishes and is
gradually replaced by the lower frequency
theta and then delta rhythms
theta waves will occur for brief intervals
during emotional responses to frustrating
events or situations
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
THETA WAVES
Everyone generates these theta waves at
least twice per day: in those fleeting instants
when we drift from conscious drowsiness
into sleep, and again when we rise from
sleep to consciousness as we awaken
The theta state is accompanied by
unexpected, unpredictable, dreamlike but
very vivid mental images
Often these startlingly real images are
accompanied by intense memories,
particularly childhood memories
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
THETA WAVES
Theta offers access to unconscious material,
reverie, free association, sudden insight,
creative inspiration
It is a mysterious, elusive state, potentially
highly productive and enlightening, but
experimenters have had a difficult time
studying it, and it is hard to maintain, since
people tend to fall asleep as soon as soon as
they begin generating large amounts of theta
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
THETA WAVES
It is seen in connection with creativity,
intuition, daydreaming, and fantasizing and
is a repository for memories, emotions,
sensations
Theta waves are strong during internal focus,
meditation, prayer, and spiritual awareness
It reflects the state between wakefulness and
sleep
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
THETA WAVES
Theta appears as consciousness slips
toward drowsiness
It is abnormal in awake adults but is perfectly
normal in children up to 13 years old
It is also normal during sleep
Back to our car example, Theta would be
considered 2nd gear. Not as slow as 1st gear
(Delta) but still not very fast
Previous Page
Return to Lab
ALPHA WAVES
As the brain waves slow down they take on a
more coherent rhythm, and can be seen on
the EEG as a regular saw-tooth pattern at
about 8 - 12 Hz
Alpha is the most prominent rhythm in the
whole realm of brain activity
Alpha appears to bridge the conscious to the
subconscious
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
ALPHA WAVES
Alpha is a common state for the brain and
occurs whenever a person is alert but not
actively processing information
It is reduced or eliminated by opening the
eyes, by hearing unfamiliar sounds, by
anxiety or mental concentration
These waves are often present when the
brain is alert but unfocused, and most people
generate alpha waves when their eyes are
closed, even if only bursts of one or two
seconds
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
ALPHA WAVES
Frequently, alpha waves are associated with
feelings of relaxation and calmness
A receptive mind
Good healthy alpha production promotes
mental resourcefulness, aids in the ability to
mentally coordinate, enhances overall sense
of relaxation and fatigue
In this state you can move quickly and
efficiently to accomplish whatever task is at
hand
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
ALPHA WAVES
When Alpha predominates most people feel
at ease and calm
Alpha has been linked to extroversion
(introverts show less), creativity (creative
subjects show alpha when listening and
coming to a solution for creative problems),
and mental work
When your alpha is within normal ranges we
tend to also experience good moods, see the
world truthfully, and have a sense of
calmness
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
ALPHA WAVES
Alpha is one of the brain's most important
frequency to learn and use information
taught in the classroom and on the job
You can increase alpha by closing your eyes
or deep breathing or decrease alpha by
thinking or calculating
alpha wave amplitudes are likely to be higher
in "outgoing" subjects
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
ALPHA WAVES
Alpha rhythms are reported to be derived
from the white matter of the brain
The white matter can be considered the part
of the brain that connects all parts with each
other
In our car scenario, Alpha would represent
neutral or idle
Previous Page
Return to Lab
BETA WAVES
frequency is about 13-30 Hz
it is in what is called its waking rhythm
The brain is focusing on the world outside
itself, or dealing with concrete, specific
problems
Beta activity is 'fast' activity
It is generally regarded as a normal rhythm
and is the dominant rhythm in those who are
alert or anxious or who have their eyes open
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
BETA WAVES
It is the state that most of brain is in when we
have our eyes open and are listening and
thinking during analytical problem solving,
judgment, decision making, processing
information about the world around us
Beta is the usual waking rhythm of the brain
associated with active thinking, active
attention, focus on the outside world or
solving concrete problems
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
BETA WAVES
Beta rhythms occur in individuals who are
alert and attentive to external stimuli or exert
specific mental effort
beta rhythms also occur during deep sleep
Previous Page
Next Page
Return to Lab
BETA WAVES
the beta wave represents arousal of the
cortex to a higher state of alertness or
tension
It may also be associated with
"remembering" or retrieving memories
Beta would represent overdrive or hyperdrive in our car scenario
Previous Page
Return to Lab