Have you ever imagined a world without clocks? Where the shadow of the sun tells you when to have lunch or when it’s time to sleep. This DIY printable will show you the wonders of a sundial! Download and make your own DIY sundial and get transported to the ancient world before the invention of clocks.
What is a sundial?
The sundial is an instrument that was used for telling the time when clocks weren’t invented. It is also called a horological instrument. The early Sumerians invented the sundial.
What are the components of a sundial?
The sundial is composed of two parts: a triangular blade called the gnomon and a flat circular plate called the dial that is numbered. Depending on the types of blades and dials, sundials are of various types.
How does a sundial work?
The sundial tells the time of the day depending on the position of the sun in the sky. The sun’s rays fall on the gnomon. As the Sun moves across the sky, it casts a shadow on the flat surface (dial) which is numbered. The shadow points at a number and this tells the time. Sundials need to point in the direction of true North. Some sundials use a shadow or the edge of a shadow while others use a line or spot of light to indicate the time.
Which is the largest sundial?
The Samrat Yantra (translation: Supreme Instrument) is the World’s Largest Sundial. It is located in Jaipur, a city in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is 90 feet tall and its shadow moves at a speed of 1mm per second.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a sundial?
The following are the advantages of a sundial:
- Sundials are eco-friendly. They do not require batteries or electricity.
- It is a long-lasting tool that stands the test of time.
The following are the disadvantages of a sundial:
- The sundial will not work efficiently in cloudy weather, while it is raining or during the night.
- Since the sundial works depending on the latitude, a sundial built for Canada will not work for New Zealand.
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