|
Chapter 6: The Earth-Moon System
Europe and North America Are Moving Apart!
Europe and North America are moving apart at a rate of about 2-4 centimeters per year. The theory of plate tectonics helps explain this movement.
After reading the article briefly explain which piece of evidence explaining the driving force of plate tectonics is the most convincing for you.
Visit the Plate Tectonics Page @ USGS web site
|
The Moon's Albedo
There is often confusion among astronomy students with regard to "the dark side of the Moon" and with different types of eclipses.
Use this site to determine the following. 1) What is meant by the "albedo" of an object? 2) Why is it incorrect--or at least confusing--to refer to "the dark side of the Moon"?
Visit the The Moon web site
|
The Earth's Magnetic Field
The magnetic field of the Earth changes with time.
This NASA site describes the Earth's ever-changing magnetic field. Check the links on the dynamo theory.
Visit the Earth's Magnetic Field (Magnetosphere) web site
|
Earth's Atmosphere
Go to UCAR's "Windows to the Universe" site to answer the following questions about the Earth's atmosphere:
1) Sometimes the region above the thermosphere is given a name. What is it called? 2) Name the boundaries between the layers shown in Figure 6-20 of your text. 3) In which layer does the Shuttle orbit?
Visit the Earth's Atmosphere web site
|
Tides
The force of gravity between the Earth and the Moon has far reaching effects; primary among them are ocean tides.
After studying the information on this site and checking the animations, wtite a short article explaining why there are two tides per day.
Visit the Lunar Tides web site
|
Auroras
An aurora is one of the most beautiful sky phenomena. In this site you can check images of auroras from Earth and from space, learn how they are created and how to find them.
Check the great images and listen to the sounds of auroras. Sign up for the "aurora alarm" and check the Exploratorium's "Aurora Tutorial."
Visit the The Aurora Page web site
|
|
