- The problem asks for the angle of elevation to the sun at noon on September 21st and December 21st in Fairbanks, Alaska (65° N latitude).
- The formula provided is: Angle of Elevation = 90° - |Latitude ± Declination|.
- For September 21st (autumnal equinox), the sun's declination is 0°. So, the calculation is 90° - |65° - 0°| = 90° - 65° = 25°.
- For December 21st (winter solstice), the sun's declination is -23.5° (south of the equator). So, the calculation is 90° - |65° - (-23.5°)| = 90° - |65° + 23.5°| = 90° - 88.5° = 1.5°.
- Therefore, the angles of elevation are 25° on September 21st and 1.5° on December 21st.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of fall comprehension worksheet.