PERIHELION Meaning and
Definition
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Perihelion is a term used in astronomy to describe a specific point in the orbit of a celestial object, particularly a planet or a comet, where it is closest to the Sun. Derived from the Greek words "peri" meaning "around" or "near" and "helios" meaning "Sun," perihelion literally translates to "near the Sun."
In general, an orbit is the path followed by an object as it revolves around another object in space under the influence of their gravitational forces. In the case of perihelion, it refers to the point in the orbit where the object, such as a planet, is at its minimum distance from the Sun. This term is often used to specify the location of a planet with respect to its star, the Sun, within a solar system.
Perihelion is a crucial concept as it directly affects various astronomical phenomena. For instance, the distance between a planet and the Sun at perihelion can influence the planet's orbital speed, the amount of solar radiation received, and weather patterns. It also has significance in determining the length and intensity of seasons on a planet. Comets, too, have a perihelion point in their elliptical orbit around the Sun.
In summary, perihelion defines the point in an object's orbit around the Sun when it is at its closest proximity to our star, having widespread importance in understanding celestial dynamics and astronomical calculations.
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The point in the orbit of a planet or a comet nearest the sun-the point farthest away from the sun is called aphelion.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PERIHELION
- pirhelion
- oerihelion
- lerihelion
- -erihelion
- 0erihelion
- pwrihelion
- psrihelion
- pdrihelion
- prrihelion
- p4rihelion
- p3rihelion
- peeihelion
- pedihelion
- pefihelion
- petihelion
- pe5ihelion
- pe4ihelion
- peruhelion
- perihillion
- perihaelion
- perehilion
Etymology of PERIHELION
The word "perihelion" is derived from two Greek words: "peri" meaning "near" or "around" and "helios" meaning "sun". When combined, "perihelion" refers to the point in an object's orbit around the sun that is closest to the sun. The term was first used in astronomy to describe this specific celestial phenomenon.
Similar spelling word for PERIHELION
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