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Loren Booda
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How has the near equality of the Sun's and Moon's apparent size (as seen from Earth) affected our planetary history (vs transient phenomena like eclipses)?
Originally posted by mathman
I believe its principal effect has been on mythology. As far as the physics of the earth, unlikely.
The equal apparent sizes of the Sun and Moon have significant implications in astronomy and ancient cultures. This phenomenon, known as a total solar eclipse, occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light and casting a shadow on the Earth.
The Sun and Moon appearing to be the same size is quite rare, as it only happens during a total solar eclipse. This phenomenon usually occurs once every 18 months, but the location and duration of the eclipse can vary.
This apparent size equality is a result of the Moon being approximately 400 times smaller than the Sun, but also being about 400 times closer to the Earth. This coincidence in size and distance creates the perfect alignment for a total solar eclipse to occur.
Many ancient cultures, such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Chinese, viewed solar eclipses as significant events and often associated them with supernatural or divine powers. Some cultures even developed myths and legends to explain the phenomenon.
Studying the equal apparent sizes of the Sun and Moon has allowed scientists to better understand the Earth-Moon-Sun system and make predictions about future eclipses. It has also helped scientists gather data on the Sun's corona, which is only visible during a total solar eclipse.