Solving Solar Parallax Distance Homework

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In summary, solar parallax distance is the distance between the Earth and the Sun that is measured by taking the angle between the Sun and a reference star at two different points in the Earth's orbit. It is important to solve this distance because it helps us understand the size and scale of our solar system, as well as the distance to other celestial bodies. The calculation of solar parallax distance involves using trigonometry and measurements of the angle between the Sun and a reference star at two different points on Earth. Factors that can affect the accuracy of these calculations include atmospheric conditions, measurement errors, and the choice of reference star. Over time, advancements in technology and techniques have made the calculation of solar parallax distance more accurate, with the use of
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clumps tim
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Homework Statement



the solar parallax is 8.8 arc seconds.. calculate its distance from earth?


Homework Equations



distance(in parsec)=1/parallax in arc sec

atempts to solution

i know this formula but it provides me weird ans like
distance=0.11pc while using this formula...wheres the err?
 
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  • #2
If the parallax is 8.8 arc seconds, .11pc distance sounds reasonable to me. What's your problem with that answer?
 
  • #3
but its the solar parallax. & pc distance from Earth to sun should be 4.8x10^-6pc.
isn't it?
 

FAQ: Solving Solar Parallax Distance Homework

1. What is solar parallax distance?

Solar parallax distance is the distance between the Earth and the Sun, measured by taking the angle between the Sun and a reference star at two different points in the Earth's orbit around the Sun.

2. Why is it important to solve solar parallax distance?

Solving solar parallax distance is important because it allows us to accurately determine the size and scale of our solar system, as well as the distance to other stars and galaxies. It also helps in understanding the movements and orbits of celestial bodies.

3. How is solar parallax distance calculated?

Solar parallax distance is calculated by using trigonometry and the measurements of the angle between the Sun and a reference star at two different points in the Earth's orbit. This can then be used to calculate the distance to the Sun using the known distance between the two points on Earth.

4. What factors can affect the accuracy of solar parallax distance calculations?

The accuracy of solar parallax distance calculations can be affected by atmospheric conditions, measurement errors, and the choice of reference star. The accuracy can also vary depending on the distance between the Sun and Earth at the time of measurement.

5. How has the calculation of solar parallax distance changed over time?

The calculation of solar parallax distance has become more accurate over time with advancements in technology and techniques. Early methods used ground-based observations, but now satellites and space probes are used to measure the angle between the Sun and reference stars. This has greatly improved the accuracy of the calculations.

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