alpha wave

alpha wave

n.

A pattern of smooth, regular electrical oscillations, as recorded by an electroencephalograph, that occur in the human brain when a person is awake and relaxed. Also called alpha rhythm.

---

alpha wave,

one of several types of brain waves, characterized by a relatively high voltage or amplitude and a frequency of 8 to 13 Hz. Alpha waves are the "relaxed waves" of the brain and constitute the majority of waves recorded by electroencephalograms registering the activity of the parietal and the occipital lobes and the posterior parts of the temporal lobes when the individual is awake but nonattentive and relaxed, with the eyes closed. Opening and closing the eyes affect the patterns of the alpha waves and the beta waves. Also called alpha rhythm, Berger wave. Compare beta wave, delta wave, theta wave.

---

alpha waves 

Rhythmic oscillation in electrical potential occurring in the cortex of the human brain when awake and at rest. The rate of oscillation is 8-13 Hz. Syn. alpha rhythm. See resting membrane potential.

---

alpha wave

Neurology A superficial brain wave with a frequency of 8–13 cycles/sec–Hz, an amplitude of 50 µV, which is normally seen by EEG in the occipital and parietal lobes. See Alpha rhythm, Brain waves, Silva mind control. Cf Mantra, Meditation, Theta waves, Yoga.