Question

If the solar elevation angle at a location is \(50^\circ\), what is the solar zenith angle?

• A. \(130^\circ\)
• B. \(40^\circ\)
• C. \(140^\circ\)
• D. \(50^\circ\)

Hint:

Remember: \[ \boxed{ \text{Solar Elevation} + \text{Solar Zenith} = 90^\circ } \]

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: The solar zenith angle is the angle between the vertical direction and the Sun's rays. It is complementary to the solar elevation angle.

Step 1: Use the relation. \[ \boxed{ \text{Zenith Angle} = 90^\circ-\text{Solar Elevation Angle} } \]

Step 2: Substitute the given value. Given, \[ \text{Solar Elevation}=50^\circ \] \[ \text{Zenith Angle} = 90^\circ-50^\circ = 40^\circ. \] Hence, \[ \boxed{40^\circ.} \] Therefore, the correct option is \[ \boxed{(B)\;40^\circ.} \]