Apparent Size of Sun: Subtended Angle Calculated by Deniz

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In summary, Deniz was able to determine the apparent size of the Sun by measuring the angle subtended by the Sun using an aspirin tablet held at arm's length. The Sun's apparent size was found to be approximately 0.501 degrees, which is consistent with its commonly known angular diameter of about half a degree.
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veronica1999
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Deniz notices that the Sun can barely be covered by closing one eye and holding an
aspirin tablet, whose diameter is 7 mm, at arm’s length, which means 80 cm from Deniz’s
eye. Find the apparent size of the Sun, which is the size of the angle subtended by the Sun.Could I get some hints pls?

Thanks
 
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veronica1999 said:
Deniz notices that the Sun can barely be covered by closing one eye and holding an
aspirin tablet, whose diameter is 7 mm, at arm’s length, which means 80 cm from Deniz’s
eye. Find the apparent size of the Sun, which is the size of the angle subtended by the Sun.Could I get some hints pls?

Thanks

The angular size of the asprin at arms length is \(7/800\) radian, which is equal to the angular size of the sun.

Converting to degrees this is \((7/800)\times(180/\pi)\approx 0.501^{\circ}\), which agrees with what everyone should know: that the sun and moon have an angular diameter of about a half degree.

CB
 

FAQ: Apparent Size of Sun: Subtended Angle Calculated by Deniz

What is the "apparent size" of the Sun?

The apparent size of the Sun refers to the size of the Sun as it appears to us on Earth. This can vary slightly due to factors such as the Earth's orbit and the Sun's distance from us.

How is the subtended angle of the Sun's apparent size calculated?

The subtended angle of the Sun's apparent size is calculated by dividing the actual diameter of the Sun by its distance from Earth. This gives us the angle at which the Sun appears to us on Earth.

Why is the apparent size of the Sun important to study?

The apparent size of the Sun is important to study because it helps us understand the relationship between the Sun and Earth. It also allows us to make accurate measurements and predictions about solar activity and its effects on our planet.

How does the apparent size of the Sun change throughout the year?

The apparent size of the Sun changes throughout the year due to the Earth's elliptical orbit around the Sun. When the Earth is closest to the Sun (perihelion), the Sun appears slightly larger, and when the Earth is farthest from the Sun (aphelion), the Sun appears slightly smaller.

Can the apparent size of the Sun be affected by atmospheric conditions?

Yes, the apparent size of the Sun can be affected by atmospheric conditions such as pollution, humidity, and temperature. These factors can cause the Sun to appear distorted or hazy, making it difficult to accurately measure its apparent size.

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