ECLIPTIC Meaning and
Definition
-
Ecliptic is a term primarily used in astronomy to refer to an imaginary plane through which the Earth orbits the Sun. It is essentially the apparent path that the Sun follows as observed from Earth over the course of a year. The term originated from the Greek word "ekleipsis," meaning "failing" or "failing to appear," because during an eclipse, the Sun seems to disappear.
In more technical terms, the ecliptic can be defined as the intersection of the celestial sphere with the plane of the Earth's orbit around the Sun. It is inclined at an angle of about 23.5 degrees to the celestial equator, which is the projection of Earth's equator onto the sky. This inclination is due to the tilt of Earth's rotational axis.
The ecliptic is a fundamental reference for astronomers, as it serves as the baseline for the coordinates used in the celestial coordinate system. It allows for the precise location of celestial objects such as stars, planets, and constellations, as their positions are measured relative to the ecliptic. It is also important for understanding the occurrence and characteristics of various astronomical phenomena, including solstices, equinoxes, and the path of the Moon, which often lies close to the ecliptic.
In summary, the ecliptic is an imaginary plane that represents Earth's orbital path around the Sun, influencing celestial coordinates and serving as a reference for various astronomical observations and phenomena.
-
The apparent path of the sun in the heavens in a year-so called because an eclipse cannot take place unless the moon be in or near the ecliptic.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ECLIPTIC
Etymology of ECLIPTIC
The word "ecliptic" originated from the Latin term "ecliptica linea", which means "line of the eclipses". In turn, the Latin term was derived from the Ancient Greek word "ekleiptikos", which means "of an eclipse" or "pertaining to an eclipse". The word refers to the apparent path of the Sun across the celestial sphere that is responsible for the occurrence of solar and lunar eclipses.
Similar spelling words for ECLIPTIC
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
