SIDEREAL DAY Meaning and
Definition
-
A sidereal day refers to the period of time it takes for a celestial body, such as a planet or moon, to complete one full rotation on its axis in relation to the distant stars. It is specifically measured using the backdrop of fixed stars, as opposed to the Sun as the reference point for measuring a solar day.
The concept of a sidereal day is primarily used in astronomy and astrophysics to calculate the precise rotation period of celestial bodies. This measure is significant in determining the fundamental characteristics of a celestial body, such as its axial tilt, rotational speed, and the establishment of coordinate systems for mapping its surface.
A sidereal day is slightly shorter than a solar day because, during one complete orbit around the Sun, a planet or moon also moves along its orbit, resulting in an apparent shift of the Sun's position in the sky. This phenomenon is caused by the celestial body's revolution around its parent star, as both rotation and revolution contribute to the change in positions of the Sun and distant stars relative to the observer. Consequently, a sidereal day is about 3 minutes and 56 seconds shorter than a solar day.
Overall, the concept of a sidereal day is instrumental in studying the rotational behavior and overall dynamics of celestial bodies, allowing astronomers to make accurate predictions, analyze planetary motions, and aid in astronomical navigation.
-
The period in which the earth performs one complete revolution round its axis.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SIDEREAL DAY
- aidereal day
- zidereal day
- xidereal day
- didereal day
- eidereal day
- widereal day
- sudereal day
- sjdereal day
- skdereal day
- sodereal day
- s9dereal day
- s8dereal day
- sisereal day
- sixereal day
- sicereal day
- sifereal day
- sirereal day
- sieereal day
- sidwreal day
Etymology of SIDEREAL DAY
The word "sidereal" comes from the Latin word "sidereus", which means "pertaining to the stars" or "star-like". It is derived from the Latin word "sidus", meaning "star" or "constellation". "Day" has Old English origins, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "dagaz", which means "day". The combination "sidereal day" refers to the amount of time it takes for the Earth to complete one rotation with respect to the stars or constellations.
Similar spelling words for SIDEREAL DAY
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
