Velocity of shadow of solar eclipse

Stargazing
Thread starter stevmg
Start date Aug 24, 2010
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Eclipse Shadow Solar Velocity

In summary, the velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse is approximately 1700 kilometers per hour (1056 miles per hour) on average and is calculated using the distance between the Earth and the Moon, as well as the speed of the Moon's orbit around the Earth. This velocity can change during the eclipse due to varying factors such as the changing distance between the Earth and the Moon and the angle of the Sun's rays. While it can be measured using advanced equipment and mathematical calculations, it may vary slightly from eclipse to eclipse. Studying the velocity is important as it provides insights into the Earth's rotation, the Moon's orbit, and helps predict future eclipses more accurately.

Aug 24, 2010

stevmg

If a solar eclipse is visible near the equatorial region on the Earth, does it move from West to East at about 1000 miles/hr?

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Aug 24, 2010

stevmg

Got the answer, sports fans... it IS 1000 mph! (At the Equator)

Here is the site that explains it:

http://library.thinkquest.org/C0126702/eclipse.htm

Now, somebody show me the math...

Last edited by a moderator: Apr 25, 2017

1. What is the velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse?

The velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse can vary depending on the location and timing of the eclipse. However, on average, the velocity of the shadow is approximately 1700 kilometers per hour (1056 miles per hour).

2. How is the velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse calculated?

The velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse is calculated using the distance between the Earth and the Moon, as well as the speed of the Moon's orbit around the Earth. This calculation also takes into account the curvature of the Earth and the angle of the Sun's rays during the eclipse.

3. Does the velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse change during the eclipse?

Yes, the velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse can change during the eclipse. This is because the distance between the Earth and the Moon is constantly changing, causing the speed of the Moon's orbit to vary. Additionally, the angle of the Sun's rays can also change as the eclipse progresses, affecting the speed of the shadow.

4. Can the velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse be measured?

Yes, the velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse can be measured using advanced equipment and mathematical calculations. However, due to the changing factors involved, the velocity may vary slightly from eclipse to eclipse.

5. Why is the velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse important to study?

The velocity of the shadow of a solar eclipse provides valuable information about the Earth's rotation and the Moon's orbit. Studying the velocity can also help scientists better understand the mechanics of eclipses and predict future eclipses more accurately.