Dusk
Dusk
Dusk (/dʌsk/) is a term used in the field of Chronobiology to refer to the time at the end of the day, just after sunset, when the sky is still bright and visible, but the sun is below the horizon.
Etymology
The term "dusk" originates from the Old English word "dox", which means "dark". It is related to the Old High German "tusken", meaning "darkness", and the Old Norse "døkkr", meaning "dark" or "gloomy".
Definition
In a medical context, dusk is often used to refer to the period of the day when light levels are decreasing, which can have various effects on the human body. This is particularly relevant in the study of Circadian Rhythm, where the onset of dusk can trigger certain physiological changes such as the release of the hormone Melatonin, which prepares the body for sleep.
Related Terms
- Twilight: The time period between daylight and darkness, which includes dusk.
- Crepuscular: Referring to animals that are active during twilight, including dusk and dawn.
- Circadian Rhythm: The body's internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, which repeats roughly every 24 hours.
- Melatonin: A hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle by causing drowsiness and lowering body temperature, among other effects. Its release is triggered by the onset of dusk.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dusk
- Wikipedia's article - Dusk
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