Understanding Earth's Rotation and Shadows

Front

What is Earth's rotation?

Back

Earth's rotation is the spinning of Earth on its axis, which takes about 24 hours to complete.

Front

What causes day and night?

Back

Day and night are caused by Earth's rotation; when one side of Earth faces the Sun, it experiences daytime, while the opposite side experiences nighttime.

Front

What is the axis of the Earth?

Back

The axis is an imaginary line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole, around which Earth rotates.

Front

In which direction does the Earth rotate?

Back

Earth rotates from west to east.

Front

What is the significance of the Earth's rotation speed?

Back

The speed of Earth's rotation affects the length of a day; a faster rotation would result in shorter days.

Front

What is a shadow?

Back

A shadow is a dark area or shape produced by an object blocking light.

Front

How does the position of the Sun affect shadows?

Back

The position of the Sun in the sky determines the length and direction of shadows.

Front

What happens to shadows during the day?

Back

Shadows change in length and direction as the Sun moves across the sky from east to west.

Front

What is the term for the path Earth takes as it moves around the Sun?

Back

The path is called an orbit.

Front

What shape is Earth's orbit around the Sun?

Back

Earth's orbit is elliptical, meaning it is oval-shaped.