Zero Shadow Day In Bangaluru-Ias Banenge

Context:

At 12:17 pm, Bengaluru experienced a ‘Zero Shadow Day’, when vertical objects appear to cast no shadow. This was because the sun was at its zenith, and so the shadow was directly under the object.

Relevance:

GS I: Geography

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Dimensions of the Article:

1. About Zero Shadow Day:
2. Why does it happen?

About Zero Shadow Day:

• Zero Shadow Day is a phenomenon that occurs twice a year, typically on or around March 20 and September 23, in locations located between the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn. On these days, the sun is directly overhead at solar noon, and as a result, shadows disappear for a brief period of time.
• This happens because the angle between the sun and the earth is exactly perpendicular, causing the sun’s rays to fall straight down and not at an angle. Therefore, objects on the ground do not cast any shadows during this time.
• Zero Shadow Day is an interesting event that occurs naturally and is celebrated by people in various parts of the world. It is particularly fascinating for photographers who use this time to capture unique photos without any shadows. It is also a great opportunity for scientists and researchers to study the earth’s position in relation to the sun and to better understand the science behind this phenomenon.

Why does it happen?

• Happens because of the tilt of Earth’s rotation axis at an angle of roughly 23.5° to the axis of revolution around the Sun.
• The Sun’s location moves from 23.5°N to 23.5°S of Earth’s equator and back, causing Uttarayan and Dakshinayan.
• All places whose latitude equals the angle between the Sun’s location and the equator on that day experience Zero Shadow Day.

Other information:

• Zero Shadow Day occurs on different days in places away from 130 latitude.
• Zero Shadow Day is restricted to locations between the tropics.
• The northernmost and southernmost points are the two solstices, and the crossing of the Sun across the equator are the two equinoxes.

-Source: Indian Express