Why Does the Sun "Rise" and "Set"?
Exploring the Earth's Daily Cycle

Photo: Eve Pranis
Each week, secret Mystery Classes report the sunrise and sunset times from their hometowns. You've probably observed the sun appearing in the morning and disappearing in the evening. Have you ever wondered what makes that happen?

Think!

  • Where does the sun seem to rise at your house? (Find out the compass direction.)
  • Where does it seem to set?
  • Make a drawing that shows the Earth and the sun and what you know about how the Earth rotates (spins) on its axis.

Next: Take a worldly look at the Earth in motion!


Learning Standards