subject: Studying Chronology: Investigating the Secrets of Life Cycles [print this page] Studying Chronology: Investigating the Secrets of Life Cycles
The phenomenon of life is, perhaps, the most mysterious enigma on the planet. This is why so many fields of science are dedicated to it explorations. Chronobiology is one of them. This is a field of science that investigates life cycles of different organisms and all phenomena and processes connected with them. This biology science includes other studies such as anatomy, genetics, molecular biology, and psychology. In case you are interested in this science, you should find out what benefits this academic discipline brings. Description of the discipline Each biological process includes the timing and variations of biological activities of different organisms as well as different devices they use to survive. The key term of this science is circadian rhythm, a full cycle of 24-hours length showing all important biological processes of living organisms. Origins and history of chronobiology The above-mentioned term appeared in the 18th century with the rise of French movement headed by J.-J. d'Ortous de Marian. This was when the Swedish naturalist and botanist Linnaeus invented a floral clock designed for specific species of flowers. This clock indicated the time when flowers were to open. This was the threshold for the emergence of chronobiology as an independent science. Modern contributions to the development of the academic discipline Nowadays scientists are working on the problem of melatonin and light therapy aimed at resetting the life cycles of human and animals. The scholars also explore different chronotypes of people (morning or evening people). This is especially important because all working days start early and, therefore, evening people can be less attentive in this part of the day. Chronobiolgy allows to eliminate this problem and to improve lives and even careers of individuals. This discipline is rarely studied at colleges and there is a possibility to find some courses online.