I describe here a very simple experiment that allows a science class to measure the latitude of their school, determine the inclination of the Earth’s axis to the ecliptic, and demonstrate the noncircularity of our orbit around the Sun. The only tools needed are: something tall and pointed (a flagpole will do), paint and a paint brush, a tape measure, a watch, and an accurate way of finding the time (such as a radio).
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© 2000 American Association of Physics Teachers.
2000
American Association of Physics Teachers
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