A Moon-shaped lemon in Stars and the Solar System – Class 8 Science Experiment

Chapter Name: Some Natural Phenomena

Activity Name: A Moon-shaped lemon in Stars and the Solar System

Activity Description:

Required Items:

1. Yellow lemon or whitewashed clay ball
2. Long needle or bicycle spoke

Step by Step Procedure:

1. Choose a day one week after the new moon day when the moon is visible in the sky before sunset.
2. Take a yellow lemon or whitewashed clay ball and pivot it on a long needle or on a spoke of a bicycle.
3. Hold the lemon or ball up towards the moon.
4. Ensure that you are standing in the sunshine while performing this activity.
5. Observe the shape formed by the sunlight on the surface of the lemon or ball.

Experiment Observations:

• The shape formed by the sunlight on the surface of the lemon or clay ball should resemble the shape of the moon.

Precautions:

1. Be cautious while using the needle or bicycle spoke to pivot the lemon or clay ball to avoid any accidents or injuries.
2. Perform the activity in an open area where the moon is clearly visible and there are no obstructions to direct sunlight.

Lesson Learnt from Experiment:

This experiment demonstrates how the illumination of the moon changes during different phases of the lunar cycle. When the moon is one week past the new moon phase, it appears as a crescent shape. The experiment helps students understand the concept of lunar phases and the interaction between sunlight and the moon.