How A Total Solar Eclipse Affects the Earth
On April 8, 2024, some areas of North America will be experiencing a Total Solar Eclipse. A total solar eclipse is when the moon aligns itself between the Earth and the sun, and it casts a shadow upon the Earth's surface. The last one was in 2017, so there is some excitement regarding this one! Especially since the 2024 one has a wider path when compared to the 2017 one. You don’t even have to be directly on the path to view the total solar eclipse, surrounding areas will see the eclipse, but it will just be a partial solar eclipse. The question though, is how does a total solar eclipse affect the earth?
Night Time Routines
The abrupt darkness brought about by a total solar eclipse disrupts the normal behavior of diurnal animals and plants. Birds may cease their chirping, believing nightfall has arrived, while flowers may begin to close their petals in response to the perceived onset of evening. If you start seeing animals looking a little disorientated it's because they use light and dark times to schedule their day. Nocturnal animals will be confused by the sun going away mid-day, and diurnal animals will be confused about where the sun went.
Photo Synthesis
With the sun covering up and no light hitting the earth's surface in the areas affected by the total solar eclipse, photosynthesis will slow. Now this is not a need to cause worry for everyone who's begun working on their spring gardens! A solar eclipse doesn’t last very long. They range from about 10 seconds to 7.5 minutes. Your plants will be fine and not majorly affected by this dark cloak during the day!
Cooler Temperatures
As the moon obscures the sun's radiant heat, temperatures can plummet by several degrees Fahrenheit, creating a noticeable chill in the air. If you’re in an area affected by the total solar eclipse you can expect the temperature to drop about 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This rapid cooling can influence local weather patterns, leading to changes in wind direction and cloud formation.
A total solar eclipse is one of these phenomena that bring wonder and awe to all who are able to witness it. However, please make sure to follow proper protocol if you’re in an area where it will be visible. Never look at the occurrence directly as it can cause harm to your retina which will affect your vision. It is also recommended to use solar eclipse glasses if you want to view it, as well as a specialized solar filter if you want to take pictures using your smartphone camera. If you’re not in an area in North America that will be seeing the total solar eclipse, there will be another occurring in 2045!