Predicting Shadow Length and Position from North Overview: This chapter explores how the length and position of shadows change throughout the day, especi...
Overview: This chapter explores how the length and position of shadows change throughout the day, especially near the sunset.
Key Concepts:
Angle of the Sun: The angle between the Sun, Earth, and the observer determines the length and position of shadows.
Elevation Angle: The angle at which the Sun reaches the Earth's surface also affects the length of shadows.
Season: The amount of daylight hours varies throughout the year, impacting the length and position of shadows.
Location: The observer's position on Earth affects their perspective of the shadow.
Predicting Shadow Length and Position:
Observe the Sun: Use any available tool, such as a smartphone or a sun chart app, to determine the Sun's position in the sky at a specific time.
Determine the Angle of the Sun: Calculate the angle between the Sun and the observer's position using trigonometric functions.
Calculate the Angle of Elevation: Calculate the angle at which the Sun reaches the Earth's surface using the same trigonometric functions.
Combine Angle of Sun and Angle of Elevation: Use the angles of the Sun and elevation to calculate the length and position of the shadow.
Consider Season: Adjust the calculations based on the current season, as seasonal changes affect the length and position of shadows.
Remember:
Shadows appear shortest when the Sun is directly overhead (sunrise and sunset).
Shadows are longest when the Sun is low in the sky (around noon).
Shadows are shortest when the Sun is high in the sky (night).
Practice:
Observe the shadows at different times of the day and record their lengths and positions. Try to identify the factors that affect their changes