Question

Discuss and write.

(a) Write a science based paragraph on 'What if the sun did not rise?'

(b) What efforts will you make to remove the misconceptions about eclipses?

(c) Various eclipses and the conditions during the period.

Answer 1

(a) If the Sun did not rise, the Earth will not get illuminated. Due to this, we won't be able to see objects around us if any other temporary source of light is not used. Also, we know, Sun is the main source of energy to all living beings. So, plants won't be able to prepare their food because of absence of sunlight and soon they will die. This will create imbalance in the food chain which in turn will result in the destruction of all kinds of organisms on Earth. Also, all the production of electrical energy will get terminated because of absence of this solar energy. Thus, it is true to day that Sun is main source of our survival.

(b) To remove the misconceptions about eclipses, such as we should not eat during eclipses etc., following efforts can be made:

• Social media such as Newspapers, T.V., radio,etc. should launch some programmes and debates discussing the myths existing related to eclipses. These mediums should highlight the superstitious talks prevailing from the past and how we can remove this. These mediums should discuss why science do not support these misconceptions.
• At the school level, discussion should be held in classrooms regarding these misconceptions. They should be asked whether they have seen such thing existing in their home. If yes, they should be taught how to change the mindset of their parents and grandparents to eradicate these misconceptions.

(c) There are two types of eclipses known as

• Solar eclipse: It occurs when the Moon comes in between the Earth and the Sun and the Moon's shadow falls on the Earth. The solar eclipse occurs only on the new moon day. Two types of solar eclipse are:
  Total Solar eclipse: When the solar disc is completely covered by the Moon.
  Partial Solar eclipse: When the solar disc is partially covered by the Moon.

• Lunar eclipse: It occurs when the Earth comes in between the Moon and the Sun and the Earth's shadow falls on the Moon. The lunar eclipse occurs on the full moon night. Two types of lunar eclipse are:
  Total lunar eclipse: When the total Moon comes under the shadow of the Earth.
  Partial lunar eclipse: When the partial Moon or some part of the Moon comes under the shadow of the Earth.