Erin Jacobs
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PENUMBRA definition: 1. a part of a shadow in which only some of the light is blocked, used especially about a shadow…. Learn more.
1. a. : a space of partial illumination (as in an eclipse) between the perfect shadow on all sides and the full light. b. : a shaded region surrounding the dark central portion of a sunspot. 2. : a surrounding or adjoining region in which something exists in a lesser degree : fringe.
The penumbra (from the Latin paene "almost, nearly" and umbra "shadow") is the region in which only a portion of the light source is obscured by the occluding body. An observer in the penumbra experiences a partial eclipse.
Apr 13, 2024 · Penumbra plays a crucial role in astronomy as it helps astronomers study and understand various celestial events. By observing the penumbra of a shadow, astronomers can determine the size, shape, and distance of objects in space.
penumbra. noun. /pəˈnʌmbrə/ (specialist) an area of shadow which is between fully dark and fully light. Questions about grammar and vocabulary? Find the answers with Practical English Usage online, your indispensable guide to problems in English.
penumbra. /pəˈnʌmbrə/ /pɪˈnʌmbrə/ IPA guide. Other forms: penumbras; penumbrae. When you measure your shadow to calculate the angle of the sun in the sky, be sure to measure to the edges of your shadow, to the penumbra, the part of a shadow that is not as dark as the center.
A partial shadow between regions of full shadow (the umbra) and full illumination, especially as cast by Earth, the Moon, or another body during an eclipse. During a partial lunar eclipse, a portion of the Moon's disk remains within the penumbra of Earth's shadow while the rest is darkened by the umbra.
1. a fringe region of half shadow resulting from the partial obstruction of light by an opaque object. 2. astronomy. the lighter and outer region of a sunspot. 3. painting. the point or area in which light and shade blend. Compare umbra.
1. a. the partial or imperfect shadow outside the complete shadow of an opaque body, as a planet, where the light from the source of illumination is only partly cut off. b. the grayish marginal portion of a sunspot. 2. a shadowy, indefinite, or marginal area.
The penumbra is a half-shadow that occurs when a light source is only partly covered by an object—for example, when the Moon obscures part of the Sun's disk. The other 2 areas are: Umbra – the shadow's dark center portion.
