Chapter 1 Study Guide What you need to know.

Reason for the Seasons Discuss the reasons for the seasons. Explain what is meant by winter solstice, summer solstice, vernal equinox, and autumnal equinox. Explain why it is warmer in summer and cooler in winter. Bust the myth that summer occurs because the earth is nearer the sun in summer. Be able to reproduce Figure 1-16 on page 11 and incorporate this diagram into your discussion. What is Figure 1-18 showing?

Reasons for the Seasons (Fig1-16)

Winter Solstice Summer Solstice Autumnal Equinox Vernal Equinox Fig 1-18

Eclipses Discuss solar and lunar eclipses. Explain the different types of solar eclipses (total, partial, annular) and lunar eclipses. Relate phase of the moon to types of eclipses. Explain why total solar eclipse is a rare event and what solar phenomenon can be studied during such an event. Be able to reproduce figure 1-27 and include this in your discussion of the rarity of total solar eclipse. How does the term ecliptic relate to the occurrence of an eclipse.

Fig 1-27

Phases of the Moon Discuss why the moon is observed in different “phases”. Reproduce Figure 1-21 on page 16, labeling the 8 different phases of the moon. Discuss how the rising and setting of the moon and sun is related the phase of the moon. Where and when would you expect to see a full moon? A new moon? What portion of the moon is lit by the sun at all times.

Fig 1-21

Celestial Sphere Discuss the “celestial sphere”. Name at least 4 points and 2 planes, and 1 line on the sphere and explain how the points, planes, and line are determined. Define celestial equator, right ascension, declination and ecliptic. Be able to reproduce one of the figures in the book showing the celestial sphere and identifying important features (Fig 1-8 or 1-17).

Fig 1-17

Pisces + angle - angle hours 0-24

Define Umbra Penumbra Equinox Solstice Sidereal period (month or year) Procession Constellation Asterism

Thinking What is the most important (interesting, valuable or amazing) thing you have learned? What do you think about what you have learned? What will you do with your new knowledge?