light-dark cycle (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun (compound noun)

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈlaɪt dɑrk ˈsaɪ.kəl/

Meaning

The term "light-dark cycle" refers to the natural cycle of light and darkness that occurs in a 24-hour period, primarily due to the rotation of the Earth. It is significant for various biological processes, including sleep-wake cycles, plant growth, and hormonal cycles in animals and humans. The term is commonly used in contexts related to biology, agriculture, and environmental science.

Usage

The frequency of use for "light-dark cycle" can vary, but it is more prevalent in written contexts like scientific articles, research papers, and educational materials than in everyday oral communication.

Example Sentences

1. The light-dark cycle plays a crucial role in regulating sleep patterns in humans.
   Цикл света и темноты играет решающую роль в регулировании цикла сна у людей.

2. Many plants rely on the light-dark cycle to guide their growth and flowering.
   Многие растения полагаются на цикл света и темноты для управления своим ростом и цветением.

3. Disruption of the light-dark cycle can lead to various health issues, including mood disorders.
   Нарушение цикла света и темноты может привести к различным проблемам со здоровьем, включая расстройства настроения.

Idiomatic Expressions

The phrase "light-dark cycle" does not appear frequently in idiomatic expressions, but it relates to several important concepts in biology and environmental science regarding temporal patterns and rhythms.

Example Sentences with Related Idioms

1. "The rhythm of life often follows the light-dark cycle, reminding us of nature's balance."
   Ритм жизни часто следует циклу света и темноты, напоминая нам о балансе природы.

2. "To keep your schedule in sync with the light-dark cycle can drastically improve your productivity."
   Синхронизация вашего расписания с циклом света и темноты может значительно повысить вашу продуктивность.

3. "Understanding the light-dark cycle is essential for anyone studying plant biology."
   Понимание цикла света и темноты имеет первостепенное значение для любого, кто изучает биологию растений.

Etymology

The term "light" derives from Old English "leoht," while "dark" comes from the Old English "deorc." The word "cycle" comes from the Greek "kyklos," meaning circle or wheel. The combination of these terms effectively conveys the concept of a recurring pattern of light and dark.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Day-night cycle
• Circadian rhythm (when referring to biological aspects)

Antonyms

• Constant light
• Penumbra (partial shadow, though not an exact antonym)

This comprehensive breakdown provides an understanding of the term "light-dark cycle," covering its aspects, meanings, and uses in the English language.