Gamma wave oscillations (30-80 Hz) in the brain are primarily associated with which of the following cognitive functions?

A Sleep regulation and dreaming

B Attention and perception

C Memory consolidation during deep sleep

D Motor coordination and balance

Solution

Correct Answer: Option B

- Gamma wave oscillations, which occur in the 30-80 Hz frequency range, are critically involved in higher-order cognitive functions.
- These brain waves are especially prominent during activities that require focused attention and the integration of sensory information, which is essential for perception.

- Research has shown that gamma oscillations facilitate the synchronization of neural activity across different brain regions, allowing for efficient information processing and cognitive binding.
- This synchronization enhances the brain's ability to selectively attend to stimuli and supports perceptual awareness.

- In contrast, other options such as sleep regulation and dreaming (Option 1) are generally associated with theta and delta waves.
- Memory consolidation during deep sleep (Option 3) primarily involves slow-wave activity and sleep spindles.
- Motor coordination and balance (Option 4) are more related to beta and alpha rhythms alongside cerebellar activity.

Therefore, the correct cognitive functions associated with gamma waves are attention and perception.

Reference: Principles of Neural Science, 5th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 23, pp. 456-460

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