Chapter 32, Problem 16TE

Do astronomers make stellar observations during the full Moon part of the month or during the new Moon part of the month? Does it make difference?

To determine

Whether astronomers make stellar observations during full moon part or new moon part of the month and whether it make a difference.

Answer to Problem 16TE

During full moon part of the month, moon is completely lit up which make astronomers to carry out their observation easily.

Explanation of Solution

The full moon part of the month is that one of the phases of the moon when the side of the moon that is brightened by the sun faces us squarely. At this time, the Sun, Earth, and the Moon are completely lined up collinearly with the Earth in between.

Due to the brightest side facing the Earth, it is very easy for the astronomers to carry out their observations while during the new moon dark side of the moon faces the Earth, which makes it difficult for the astronomers to study during the new moon part of the month.

Conclusion:

Therefore, during full moon part of the month, moon is completely lit up which make astronomers to carry out their observation easily.