Because circadian rhythms are repeating patterns, we can use principles of trigonometry to quantify them. Circadian rhythms produce repeating patterns over time. We can quantify properties of waves such as the amplitude and period. The amplitude of a wave is the height from peak to crest. The period of a wave is the time for completion of one cycle.
Circadian rhythms are somewhat more complicated than the simplest sine wave.
Instead of 2 p , the period is 24 hours. The amplitude depends on what property of the plant we are considering. Additionally, environmental factors can affect the amplitude, period, and phase. Shifts in phase occur if the cycle begins sooner or later than normal, or if the peak and crests of the wave are higher or lower than normal. For example, we could manipulate the circadian rhythm of flower opening by artificially creating a 24 hour day-night cycle 6 hours later than normal day and night.