Daylight
Daylight
Daylight (/ˈdeɪlaɪt/), from the Old English dæg and lēoht, refers to the natural light produced by the sun during the daytime. It is a crucial aspect of the Earth's diurnal cycle and has significant impacts on both human and animal biology.
Etymology
The term "daylight" is derived from the Old English words dæg (day) and lēoht (light), which together signify the light produced during the day. The term has been in use since at least the 14th century.
Related Terms
- Sunlight: The light emitted by the sun, of which daylight is a component.
- Twilight: The time of day when the sun is just below the horizon, causing the upper atmosphere to be illuminated.
- Dawn: The period of time each morning at which daylight first begins to appear.
- Dusk: The time of day following sunset during which the sky gradually darkens.
- Circadian rhythm: The internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, which is largely influenced by daylight.
Impact on Human Health
Daylight plays a significant role in human health, particularly in regulating the body's circadian rhythm. Exposure to daylight helps to regulate sleep patterns and can also boost mood and productivity. Lack of daylight, particularly during the winter months, can lead to conditions such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time (DST) is a practice used in many parts of the world to make better use of daylight during the longer days of the year. By setting clocks forward one hour from standard time during the warmer part of the year, people can have more daylight available during the evening.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Daylight
- Wikipedia's article - Daylight
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