If you imprisoned someone in a cell where they can’t see the outside world at all, and gave them a clock that runs 3 times slower, would they eventually happily sleep once every three days, and for a long time? Why or why not?

Question

If you imprisoned someone in a cell where they can’t see the outside world at all, and gave them a clock that runs 3 times slower, would they eventually happily sleep once every three days, and for a long time? Why or why not?

In: Biology

Answer 1

Existing in total darkness has been studied. Google studies on Josie Laures and Antoine Senni.

In any case, a clock won’t really make any real difference. Changing the lighting cycles might.

Sleep is governed by relatively unrelated two factors. Circadian rhythm and adenosine/melatonin. Circadian rhythm is relatively stable though subject to light clues for adjustment. Melatonin is, I believe, very light sensitive. Adenosine is purely a metabolism thing.

Ultimately, sleep has very important restorative affects. Studies show that after even 24 hours of sleep deprivation, you have cognitive deficits similar to a drunk person (studies were done for driving safety). These deficits accumulate (I don’t remember if linearly or geometrically) until you reach a point (48-72 in) where you microsleep. If I remember, studies beyond 72 hours were considered too dangerous.

These studies were remarkably similar across all populations except – if I remember – for a very tiny group with certain gene mutations.

An excellent lay reference is [Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams](https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B06ZZ1YGJ5/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_d_asin_title_o02?ie=UTF8&psc=1)