Earth’s Orbit & Rotation

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 is Earth's orbit?

Back

Earth's orbit is the path Earth takes around the Sun, which takes about 365 days to complete.

Front

What causes day and night?

Back

Day and night are caused by Earth's rotation on its axis; when one side faces the Sun, it is day, and when it faces away, it is night.

Front

What is stellar parallax?

Back

Stellar parallax is the apparent shift in position of a nearby star against the background of distant stars, providing evidence that Earth moves.

Front

What is a Foucault pendulum?

Back

A Foucault pendulum is a device that demonstrates Earth's rotation; it swings in a constant direction while Earth rotates beneath it.

Front

Why do we have time zones?

Back

Time zones are needed because Earth rotates, causing different parts of the world to experience day and night at different times.

Front

What is the geocentric model?

Back

The geocentric model is an ancient theory that places Earth at the center of the universe, with the Sun and stars revolving around it.

Front

What is the heliocentric model?

Back

The heliocentric model is the modern understanding that places the Sun at the center of the solar system, with Earth and other planets orbiting around it.

Front

How long does it take for Earth to complete one rotation?

Back

It takes about 24 hours for Earth to complete one full rotation on its axis.

Front

How long does it take for Earth to complete one orbit around the Sun?

Back

It takes about 365 days for Earth to complete one full orbit around the Sun.