What is the function/purpose of a yawn and why is it contagious?!


Question:

Answers:
The popular theory is that yawning is for oxygen boosting/carbon dioxine expulsion. Hwoever, this is contended, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yawning for some other theories.
The fact that it is contagious is far more interesting though.
There were theories that it was related to the environment being the same, or even an exchange of chemicals. However, there is more debate now, as if you have a video conversation with someone on a webcam: same thing happens. You could be on different sides of the world, at different times of day, and you're still both yawning.
Another theory is that it's a subconscious psychological effect. You see someone yawning, and your subconscious thinks that it would rather like to do that, Interestingly, I have yawned quite a lot whilst I've been writing this, and I'm not tired at all.
There's a similar question to yours here http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a2_309.html
But the truth is, no-one really knows the answer.

Other Answers:
When your brain needs a boost of oxygen, you yawn to meet that need. As far as being contagious, I think it's just coincidence. Maybe the person that you are with is tired too.

First of all, let me tell you I am not a scientist and am only guessing at the answer to your question.

Well. When you inhale Oxygen (O2) is entering your body. When you exhale Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is released. When you are tired, your body will begin to work more slowly and you need more O2. When you yawn you open your mouth wide enough to receive maximum O2.

There are many theories as to why yawning is contagious. I have experiment it many times and still do not understand. When one person is tired and yawns why should you do that? I have no idea. But I do think it might have something to do with the fact that even if you aren't yawning, but just opening your mouth wide you yawn. I have no idea.

Crap. I just yawned.

Hope this helped. Remember that you receive extra points when choosing a best answer!


Modify:

Coincidence? I think not. There must be some scientific meaning as to why it is contagious. The first answer is wrong.
Source(s):
Yawning 101.

The Physiological Theory :Proponents of this theory stated that science has proven that we yawn to get more oxygen into our system or to rid ourselves of excess carbon dioxide. Yawning is contagious because everybody in any given room is likely to be short of fresh air at the same time. Check link below for a long discussion of other theories and research on this topic.
Source(s):
http://www.4to40.com/health/print.asp?article=health_yawningcontagious

a yawn is simply the body's rection to not getting enough air, you yawn to get some. yawns are contagious due to the "monkey see, monkey do" theory, we sometimes subconsciously copy the behavior of those around us.
Answers:

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