Relationship of the K-complex to the O wave: a study using averaging techniques

The event-related potential (ERP) includes a complex of late slow waves, collectively called the O wave to denote a hypothesized relationship with the orienting response (OR). This relationship was tested by examining the effects of sleep on the O wave. Particular attention was directed to the K-complex, recorded with long-time constant amplifiers and studied using averaging techniques. The average ERP waveforms from the waking state showed clearly defined N1, P3 and SNW1 components, each of which was modified during sleep. The SNW1 component of the O wave appears to grow progressively through stage 2 sleep suggesting that the K complex may be a greatly exaggerated SNW1 component.<<ETX>>