The latitude of Fairbanks is approximately 65 north. Determine the elevation ang

Question

The latitude of Fairbanks is approximately 65 north. Determine the elevation angle of the Sun above our south horizon at noon on: (a) Summer solstice (i.e., mid-summer) (b) Winter solstice (i.e., mid-winter) (c) Equinox Hints: Our latitude (65 north) is equal to the angular distance, along the meridian, from our zenith to the celestial equator. Now, think about how far north or south of the celestial equator the Sun is at each of the three times mentioned in the question. Finally, recall that the elevation angle of an object above the horizon is equal to 90 minus its angular distance from the zenith.

Explanation / Answer

a) In summer solstice, sun is directly above 23.45 degree N.

The angular distance between sun and Fairbanks in summer solstice =

angular distance from equator - angular distance of sun's latitude from equator = 65 - 23.45 = 41.55 degree

Elevation angle of the sun = 90 - 41.55 = 48.45 degree

b) In winter solstice, sun is directly above 23.45 degree south.

The angular distance between sun and Fairbanks in winter solstice =

angular distance from equator + angular distance of sun's latitude from equator = 65 + 23.45 = 88.45 degree ( we are adding because the sun is now above south latitude and Fairbanks is in north hemisphere)

Elevation angle of the sun = 90 - 88.45 = 1.55 degree

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