Pronunciation: [ɐpˈɒfɪz] (IPA) 
The word "apophis" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet as /əˈpɑːfɪs/. The first sound, represented by the "schwa" symbol (ə), is a neutral vowel sound, like the "uh" sound in "about." The "a" sound is pronounced as in "father." The "f" sound is pronounced as in "feather," and the "ɪ" represents the "ih" sound in "sit." The final "s" is also pronounced as in "sit." Overall, the word is pronounced as uh-PAH-fis.
Apophis is a noun that refers to a celestial object of interest in the field of astronomy. Specifically, it is the name given to a near-Earth asteroid, formally designated as 99942 Apophis. This asteroid gained significant attention due to its close approach to Earth and initial calculations that suggested a small probability of collision with our planet in the future.
Apophis was first discovered in 2004 by astronomers at the Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona, United States. The name "Apophis" was chosen for the asteroid to honor the ancient Egyptian god associated with chaos, darkness, and destruction.
Scientists have closely monitored Apophis due to its trajectory and potential risk to Earth. Initially, there were concerns that it could collide with our planet during its close approach in April 2029. However, subsequent observations and refined calculations have ruled out any significant risk during the 2029 flyby.
The significance of Apophis lies in the understanding it provides for potential asteroid impacts and the need for continued monitoring and potential mitigation strategies in the future. Studying Apophis and other similar objects can help scientists develop methods to accurately predict and prevent potential hazards posed by near-Earth asteroids.
The word "Apophis" traces its etymology to ancient Egyptian mythology. Apophis, also known as Apep, was an important figure in Egyptian cosmology. He represented chaos, disorder, and the destructive forces of the universe. Apophis was depicted as a giant serpent or dragon, intent on devouring the sun god Ra during his nightly journey through the underworld.
The word "Apophis" itself is derived from the ancient Egyptian term "ꜥꜣ-pꜣ-pꜣ", which roughly translates to "the giant serpent" or "the great enemy". It is important to note that the word "Apophis" is commonly used in the context of the asteroid 99942 Apophis, which was named after the Egyptian deity due to its potential threat of colliding with Earth.
