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How to Make a Solar Eclipse Model Using Clay

Less common than the lunar eclipse, a solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, hiding the sun from the Earth's view. A solar eclipse can occur in varying degrees. A complete solar eclipse is rare and happens about once every 370 years, according to Astronomy for Kids. Other degrees of solar eclipse happen more frequently -- some as often as once a year. To help illustrate the way a solar eclipse works, create a model using some objects you have around your home.

Things You'll Need

  • Clay
  • Flashlight
  • Orange
  • Ruler
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Instructions

    • 1

      Roll a ball of clay that is approximately one-fourth the size of the orange. This size difference provides a fairly accurate representation of the size difference between the Earth and the moon. The ball of clay represents the moon, while the orange represents the Earth.

    • 2

      Place the ball of clay onto the table. Measure 8 inches and place the orange on the table at this point.

    • 3

      Measure 2 feet away from the clay ball so the orange is directly behind the clay ball. Stand at the 2-foot mark and shine the flashlight at table level toward the clay ball. The flashlight represents the sun.

    • 4

      Note the portion of the orange that is covered by shadow. The size of the shadow represents the coverage of a solar eclipse.


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