Define the meanings of the terms sidereal month and synodic month when applied to the motion of the Moon around the Earth. Using a diagram, explain why the synodic month is longer than the sidereal month. The sidereal month is 27.3 days. Assuming for simplicity that the Earth moves exactly 30◦ around its orbit between successive New Moons, estimate the length of the synodic month, expressing your answer in days. Show all of your working.

Applications and Investigations in Earth Science (9th Edition)
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ISBN:9780134746241
Author:Edward J. Tarbuck, Frederick K. Lutgens, Dennis G. Tasa
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Chapter1: The Study Of Minerals
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Define the meanings of the terms sidereal month and synodic month when applied to the motion of the Moon around the Earth. Using a diagram, explain why the synodic month is longer than the sidereal month. The sidereal month is 27.3 days. Assuming for simplicity that the Earth moves exactly 30◦ around its orbit between successive New Moons, estimate the length of the synodic month, expressing your answer in days. Show all of your working.
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