Chapter 31, Problem 30A

Summary Introduction

To write: Effect of disappearance of circadian rhythms.

Introduction: Circadian rhythm is a cycle that occurs daily. Animals, even humans repeat behaviors in a rhythmic cycle.

Explanation of Solution

The daily cycle of sleeping and waking is influenced by external factors in animals. But, most animals that include humans too have developed an internal clock, known as a biological clock. This helps in maintaining the daily rhythm of the sleep/wake cycle of 24 hours.

Circadian rhythm also influences hormone release, digestion, eating habits, and other bodily functions. Thus, biological clocks running before their time or after their time result in disrupted circadian rhythms.

The disappearance of circadian rhythms would result in disturbed sleep cycles, hormonal cycle, eating habits. There will be no concept of day and night, breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Conclusion

If the circadian rhythms disappeared, the concept of a daily routine may not exist.