Paper 1 Exam Questions

Question 1

Which of the following cannot show the observers horizon?
-computer program
-phone app
-planisphere
-star map

Answer 1

Star map

Question 2

What is the name of the region that lies a few degrees either side of the ecliptic

Answer 2

Zodiacal band

Question 3

In which season is the constellation of Virgo easiest to observe. Why?

Answer 3

Spring. Sun is in opposite part of sky

Question 4

How do you determine whether a star chart shows the Southern or Northern hemisphere

Answer 4

The declination is positive or negative. Declination negative is South

Question 5

What line joins all locations with a latitude of 23.5 degrees South

Answer 5

Tropic of Capricorn

Question 6

The ‘lunar distance’ method can be used to measure longitude. Which of the following measurements must be taken in this method.
-Angular distance across the Moon’s disc
-THe angular distance between the Moon and certain bright stars
-THe angular distance between the Moon and the horizon
-The angular distance between the Moon and a comet.

Answer 6

The angular distance between the Moon and certain bright stars

Question 7

Sailors on a ship can use observations of the Sun and the time on an accurate clock to find their longitude. Describe this method for finding longitude. Describe this method.

Answer 7

-Record time of local noon or time Sun culminates
-Measure the difference between recorded time of local noon and 12:00 GMT.
-A difference of 4 minutes corresponds to 1 degree of longitude East or West of the meridian.
-If clock is ‘slow’ then West of prime meridian
-Find EOT

Question 8

Why is it easier to view a meteor shower with the naked eye

Answer 8

Can view more of the sky. Larger field of view

Question 9

Why do meteors showers appear to originate from one point in the sky.

Answer 9

Due to perspective

Question 10

State how meteor showers get their names

Answer 10

Named based on which constellation the radiant lies within.