Question

What is the technical name given to the difference (elongation) between the longitudes of the Sun and the Moon?

• A. Karanam
• B. Nakshatram
• C. Tithi
• D. Yoga

Hint:

Tithi = Moon minus Sun (Difference). Yoga = Moon plus Sun (Sum). Nakshatra = Moon alone. Remember: Tithi is the "distance" the Moon has gained on the Sun.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The 'Panchang' consists of five limbs: Tithi, Vara, Nakshatra, Yoga, and Karana. Each of these is defined by a specific relationship between the Sun and/or the Moon. The relationship between the relative positions of the Sun and Moon is the most important for the lunar calendar.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The 'Tithi' is defined as a 12-degree elongation between the Moon and the Sun.
\[ \text{Tithi Number} = \frac{\text{Moon's Longitude} - \text{Sun's Longitude}}{12^\circ} \]
If the result is between 0 and 1, it is the 1st tithi (Pratipada). If it is exactly 15, it is Purnima (180 degrees separation).

Step 3: Detailed Explanation of Options:
- Tithi: The elongation (difference) between Moon and Sun in units of 12 degrees. It determines the lunar day.
- Nakshatra: Based purely on the Moon's longitude (the path is divided into 27 segments of $13^\circ 20'$ each).
- Yoga: Based on the sum of the longitudes of the Sun and Moon (\( \text{Sun} + \text{Moon} \)).
- Karana: Half of a Tithi (6 degrees of elongation).

Step 4: Reasoning:
Since the question asks for the "difference" (Antaram) between the longitudes of the Sun and Moon, the answer must be 'Tithi'. This difference measures how far the Moon has traveled away from the Sun since the last New Moon (Amavasya).

Step 5: Final Answer:
The difference between Sun and Moon is called Tithi.