When a person is slightly sleep deprived, _____ tasks will suffer less than _____ tasks.

• A. simple; more complex
• B. more complex; simple
• C. motor; mental
• D. mental; motor

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of sleep deprivation: Sleep deprivation can affect cognitive and physical performance, but the extent of the impact can vary depending on the complexity of the task.
2. Consider the nature of simple versus complex tasks: Simple tasks often require less cognitive effort and are more automatic, whereas complex tasks require higher cognitive functions such as problem-solving and decision-making.
3. Analyze the impact of sleep deprivation on task performance: Sleep deprivation tends to impair tasks that require higher cognitive functions more than those that are simple and automatic.
4. Differentiate between motor and mental tasks: Motor tasks involve physical actions and coordination, while mental tasks involve cognitive processes such as thinking and reasoning.
5. Apply the understanding to the problem: Given that sleep deprivation affects cognitive functions more, mental tasks (which are more complex) will suffer more than motor tasks (which are simpler).