Estimating the Diameter of the Moon Using a Pencil - Simple Physics Problem

  • Thread starter k_yup
  • Start date
In summary, the conversation discusses estimating the diameter of the moon by holding a pencil in front of one's eye and using the earth-moon distance of 3.8x10^5km. The person suggests measuring the end of the pencil (1.5 cm or 1.5x10^-5km) and using similar triangle theory to solve the problem. The other person confirms that this method would work and apologizes for a late reply.
  • #1
k_yup
4
0
im new to the physics world and know this is probably an easy problem but i don't know where to start

Hold a pencil in front of your eye at a position where its end just blocks out the moon. Make approprite measurements to estimate the diameter of the moon, given that the earth-moon distance is 3.8x10^5km.

i figured that you prob had to measure the end of a pencil which i measured about 1.5 cm which is 1.5x10^-5km but i don't really know what to do from there.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
k_yup said:
im new to the physics world and know this is probably an easy problem but i don't know where to start

Hold a pencil in front of your eye at a position where its end just blocks out the moon. Make approprite measurements to estimate the diameter of the moon, given that the earth-moon distance is 3.8x10^5km.

i figured that you prob had to measure the end of a pencil which i measured about 1.5 cm which is 1.5x10^-5km but i don't really know what to do from there.

How far away was the pencil from your eye?
 
  • #3
about 15cm
 
  • #4
so use simular triangle theory?
 
  • #5
k_yup said:
so use simular triangle theory?

Yes, that would do it nicely.

Sorry for late reply I guess I missed it last night when I scanned the board.

Good luck.
 

FAQ: Estimating the Diameter of the Moon Using a Pencil - Simple Physics Problem

What is a simple problem?

A simple problem is a task or situation that can be easily understood and solved with basic knowledge and skills. It usually does not require complex analysis or advanced techniques.

How do you identify a simple problem?

To identify a simple problem, you can start by breaking it down into smaller parts and examining each part separately. Look for any patterns or similarities that may suggest a straightforward solution. Additionally, simple problems often have clear and specific goals or outcomes.

What are the benefits of solving simple problems?

Solving simple problems can improve critical thinking skills, boost confidence, and increase efficiency. It also allows for a better understanding of foundational concepts and can lead to more complex problem-solving abilities.

Can simple problems have multiple solutions?

Yes, simple problems can have multiple solutions. However, these solutions are usually straightforward and do not require extensive analysis or experimentation.

How can simple problems be used in scientific research?

Simple problems can be used in scientific research as a starting point to explore more complex problems. They can also serve as a control or baseline in experiments, allowing researchers to compare and contrast results. Additionally, solving simple problems can lead to new insights and ideas for further research.

Similar threads

Estimate Diameter of Moon Using Pencil Measurements
Replies
2
Views
2K
Experimenting whether the diameter of a pot affects boiling time for water
Replies
15
Views
921
Webpage title: Estimating the Diameter of the Moon Using a Total Solar Eclipse
Replies
10
Views
7K
Question about angles and triangles I thinkg
Replies
6
Views
2K
Solve Earth-Moon Mass Estimation Problem - Help Needed!
Replies
9
Views
2K
Time of Fall for a Pencil Dropped at an Angle
Replies
27
Views
5K
Ratio of Sun's Diameter to the Moon's
Replies
2
Views
11K
Why Did Aristarchus Measure the Sun's Distance During a Half Moon?
Replies
7
Views
7K
How does the diameter of a funnel affect the speed of air passing through it?
Replies
6
Views
7K
Physics problem - Momentum and energy
Replies
25
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top