Earth’s Orbit & Rotation

Front

What is Earth's orbit?

Back

Earth's orbit is the path that Earth takes as it moves around the Sun. It takes about 365 days to complete one orbit.

Front

What causes different constellations to be visible from Earth at different times of the year?

Back

Different constellations are visible due to Earth's orbit around the Sun, which changes our view of the stars.

Front

What is Earth's rotation?

Back

Earth's rotation is the spinning of Earth on its axis. It takes about 24 hours to complete one full rotation.

Front

What time of day is it when the sun is highest in the sky?

Back

It is noon when the sun is highest in the sky.

Front

What happens to shadows at noon?

Back

At noon, shadows are the shortest because the sun is directly overhead.

Front

What time of day is represented by a long shadow to the west?

Back

A long shadow to the west indicates it is morning.

Front

Why does the sun appear to move across the sky?

Back

The sun appears to move across the sky because of Earth's rotation on its axis.

Front

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

Back

It takes 24 hours for Earth to complete one rotation.

Front

What is the difference between Earth's rotation and its orbit?

Back

Rotation is the spinning of Earth on its axis, while orbit is the path Earth takes around the Sun.

Front

What is a constellation?

Back

A constellation is a group of stars that forms a recognizable pattern in the night sky.