Seasons & Tilt
How does a planet's axial tilt influence the distribution of solar energy over a year?
It results in alternating periods where each hemisphere receives more direct sunlight, creating seasonal changes.
When does the solar corona become visible?
During a total solar eclipse
What do we call the fine, powdery surface layer of pulverized rock on the Moon?
Regolith
The star Vega rises today at 6:40 A.M. Will it rise earlier or later tomorrow?
Earlier (Stars rise about 4 minutes earlier each day)
What factor is most responsible for the difference in seasonal temperature extremes between planets with similar axial tilts but different orbital eccentricities?
The distance from the sun during different parts of the orbit affects the temperature extremes.
Why does the Moon appear reddish during a total lunar eclipse?
It reflects sunlight filtered through Earth's atmosphere, which scatters shorter wavelengths (blue and green) and allows longer wavelengths (red) to reach the Moon.
What are the large, dark areas on the Moon that form the "Man in the Moon" face?
Maria
What is the relative alignment of the Earth, Moon, and Sun during a New Moon phase?
Earth - Moon - Sun
Describe the seasons on a planet with an axial tilt of 90 degrees compared to Earth's.
The planet would experience extreme seasons, with one hemisphere in constant daylight and the other in constant darkness for half of its orbit.
The Moon's orbit is inclined relative to Earth's orbit. How does this influence the occurrence of eclipses?
It causes eclipses to occur only when the alignment is nearly perfect
The majority of lunar craters were formed by what process?
Solid bodies such as asteroids impacted the Moon's surface
What is the main cause of the variations in the timing of moonrise and moonset throughout the lunar cycle?
Changes in the Moon's orbital speed (or distance from Earth/orbital period)
What is the agreed upon reason for the Earths tilt?
Impact of the Moon.
Why will solar eclipses end in the future?
What are the 3 major geological features found on the Moon?
Crater, maria, rille
At solar noon on the winter solstice, where is the Sun is located
23.5 degrees below the Celestial Equator