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How can you determine the distance between two objects when one is incredibly far away? Discover how early astronomers and mathematicians calculated quantities such as the distance between Earth and the Sun in an insightful video. The resource covers parallax, using trigonometry in calculating large distances, and the units used to measure distances in space.
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Instructional Ideas
- Conduct a study of parallax in class to help pupils master the concept
- Follow up the video with a lesson on the notable scientists discussed in it
Classroom Considerations
- Consider the level of knowledge your class has on measurement, trigonometry, and common heavenly bodies; some quick review might be in order
- This video is hosted on YouTube
Pros
- The resource provides great insight into early concepts of the size of Earth and distances between Earth and other objects in the universe
- Illustrations help show how scientists measured these incredibly long distances
Cons
- None