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AS LS2 Vocabulary
Astronomy Learning Set 2 Vocabulary
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Sundial | a device that measures time using shadows cast by an object that blocks the Sun’s light. |
Gnomon | the object on a sundial blocking direct light from the SUn and casting a shadow. |
Axis | a line through the center of a body, around which the body rotates, or spins. |
Day | the amount of time it takes a body to spin once on its axis. |
Reflection | Bouncing back of light from a surface. |
Phases of the Moon | the illuminated part of the Moon visible from Earth at a given time. |
Orbit | the path that a solar-system object takes in revolving around another solar-system object. |
Horizon | the line at which the sky and the Earth appear to meet. |
Eclipse | the blocking of light from one object in space by another object in space, as seen from a particular location. |
Solar eclipse | when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, so that light from the sun is partially or totally blocked. |
Lunar eclipse | when the Moon passes through Earth’s shadow so that some or all of the Moon can only be seen by reflected light from Earth. |
Total eclipse | the complete blocking of light from one object in space by another object in space, as seen from a particular location. |
Partial eclipse | the blocking of a portion of light from one object in space by another object in space, as seen from a particular location. |
Umbra | the dark, inner shadow cast by an object. |
Penumbra | the lighter outer shadow cast by an object. |
Corona | outer portion of the Sun’s atmosphere, consisting of superheated gases, can only be seen during a solar eclipse. |