Posts Tagged ‘planets in the solar system’

Many parents are puzzled and taken aback by the number of topics and the complexity of today’s science lessons for kids. Sometimes parents look at their children’s notes and textbooks and think to themselves that they can not remember learning this lesson, or they remember learning it at a much later grade. Admit it, it happened to you! Do not worry, it is very normal for you to be surprised by your kid’s science class. Truth is that kids are learning concepts faster than before and with all the modern advances being made in science, there is always more to learn!

The life sciences which you probably remember as biology, focusing on cell reproduction and photosynthesis now introduces the concepts of cell division at the fifth grade. What you were learning in high school, your kid’s science class now teaches in the last year of elementary! To help tutor your kids with life sciences, always read their textbook a chapter ahead of them, and supplement your reading with some online research. You will find that you are learning some new and interesting concepts, and it will prepare you for the questions your child will throw your way!

Back when you were reading school books, earth science told us that there were nine planets in our solar system, and one asteroid belt. Well, nowadays, kid’s science teaches them that there are only eight planets in the solar system, four dwarf planets (Pluto included), and two belts that orbit the sun. Right, two belts, that is news to you, isn’t it? Like life science, earth science is constantly changing because of the new discoveries being made everyday. What was once a simple study on the different types of rocks, now discusses how to carbon date a rock!

One of the safer sciences in terms of how much new knowledge is added is physical science. This is because the laws of physics have held true for many generations, and when the complicated part of physics comes in, your kids will be in college and probably studying physics as their major. Also, developments in physics usually involve the very confusing and complicated formulas which no kid’s science class will discuss unless your kid is in a school for geniuses. This makes it rather safe for parents as long as you and your child can keep up with the pace in which it is being taught. Chances are that you will be able to do so, this is one science you need not worry too much about!

On a final note, keep up with your kid’s science class by keeping yourself up to date in the world of science. Try to read some science news online, and keep tabs on what your child is learning. Do not be afraid to speak to your child’s teacher either. Many teachers appreciate it when parents want to help their children learn more and better, so all your efforts will be very welcome. Remember that when you can teach something to your child, they are likely to learn it faster and better!

Author: Ethan Jeremy
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Gadget reviews

The star-lit sky is one of nature’s most amazing displays that most of us have taken for granted. We have become very busy in our lives that we usually have no time to look at the heavens above us. We are already dead tired at the end of the day. In addition, most of us live in urban areas where the city lights have outshined the stars and only those in the countryside have the advantage of crystal clear view of the spectacular show.

Some people have been inspired by these cosmic phenomena to either start a career in astronomy or engage in a hobby. Astronomers, physicists, and other scientists have begun their quest for space exploration by just looking at the stars in the night sky. They have a never-ending curiosity on how the solar system, stars, and other foreign bodies came into being. Their efforts have given us the knowledge on how the universe as a whole gave way to our own existence. Amateurs have looked at the sky and stirred up great desire to learn more about the heavens in their own way. It is not surprising that these space hobbyists at the past and present were able to discover previously unknown planets, stars, and galaxies. They have even predicted certain changes in space that scientists have overlooked in their observations.

Your passion for astronomy may have started from a feeling of awe that you experienced at a camping trip with your friends. A total solar eclipse may have got you scrambling outside your home to watch it. There a lots of sightings that inspired many people to start this sky-gazing hobby.

A budding amateur astronomer such as you should read various books regarding astronomy. There are reading materials that can be found in public libraries and even on the internet. Among the most important things to note during your research is to know the orbits of planets in the solar system and the position of the stars at different times of the year. Nevertheless, experience is the greatest teacher that will enable you to learn more about celestial objects. You need to invest on equipment that will give you a clear vision of space at night. A constellation map is also a vital tool in charting the various formations of stars seen in the sky.

For starters, a good set of astronomy binoculars can be used in stargazing. Be sure to acquire one that is suited for this purpose because these are very comfortable to carry around. This gadget also has unique features that can zoom in images of stars and other planetary bodies. As you conduct even more comprehensive research on astronomy, specialized and long-sized personal space telescopes are recommended. However, you don’t need to buy the most sophisticated ones in order for you to enjoy your hobby. Look for those that are affordable and can function well.

There are times when you want to go to different places to observe the formation of stars as well as rare phenomena such as solar and lunar eclipses. Hence, you should also ensure that the device can withstand long-term use and for adverse conditions. Of course, no one can stop you from owning the ultimate telescope system. However, you need someone who has specialized knowledge on its operation. A few tweaks done on the instrument and you can spend long hours watching the heavens beyond the naked eye and towards the unknown.

Author: Gregory McFadden
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Excise Tax

What event/condition made Planet Earth the only inhabitable one? Is it because of its distance from the sun? Why do all the other planets in the solar system have totally different and uninhabitable atmosphere/ environment than that of Earth?