Sundials
applied
How is the sun used to tell the time? - Explore the mathematical principles and create your own unique investigation.
Introduction
Here is an example of a simple sundial, which can be used to find East and West, and tell the time. What are the mathematical concepts at play here?
Guiding Questions
- How can you model this using sinusoidal functions?
- What determines the amplitude and period of your model?
- How does latitude affect the seasonal variation?
- At what point in the year is the rate of change greatest?
- How would your model change for different latitudes or planets?
Key Mathematical Concepts
Trigonometry
Solar Geometry
Sundials
Time