1. What is Solar Shadow Calculation?

Solar shadow calculation determines the length of a shadow cast by an object based on its height and the sun's elevation angle. This is important in architecture, photography, and various scientific applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the trigonometric formula:

Where:

• \( Height \) — Height of the object in meters
• \( Solar\ Elevation \) — Angle of the sun above the horizon in degrees

Explanation: The tangent function relates the angle of elevation to the ratio between the object's height and its shadow length.

3. Importance of Shadow Length Calculation

Details: Calculating shadow length is crucial for architectural design to ensure proper sunlight exposure, for photography to plan lighting conditions, and in solar energy applications to optimize panel placement.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the object height in meters and the solar elevation angle in degrees (between 0 and 90). Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is solar elevation angle?
A: Solar elevation angle is the angle between the horizon and the center of the sun's disc, measured in degrees.

Q2: How does time of day affect shadow length?
A: Shadows are longest at sunrise and sunset (when solar elevation is lowest) and shortest at solar noon (when solar elevation is highest).

Q3: Does this calculation work for any object shape?
A: This calculation provides the shadow length for a vertical object. For irregular shapes, the calculation may be more complex.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically precise for a point light source. For the sun, it's an excellent approximation for most practical purposes.

Q5: Can I use this for solar panel placement?
A: Yes, this calculation helps determine shading patterns which is important for optimizing solar panel placement and efficiency.