Earth
Earth is a one of a kind place. We will be studying what creates seasons, as well as day and night. Because of these characteristics, nowhere else in the Universe is like our home.
The Motions of the Earth
Most of the cycles and patterns of motion between the Earth and Sun are predictable.
Earth’s Motion around the Sun
Earth’s revolution around the Sun takes approximately 365 days. This is one year.
The orbit is elliptical (oval)
Most of the cycles and patterns of motion between the Earth and Sun are predictable.
Earth’s Motion around the Sun
Earth’s revolution around the Sun takes approximately 365 days. This is one year.
The orbit is elliptical (oval)
This elliptical shape is exaggerated. The orbit of the Earth is almost circular.
Day and Night
Earth completes one rotation on its axis in a 24-hour period, producing day and night. The Earth rotates from west to east or counter clockwise. This rotation makes the Sun, stars and moon appear to change position in the sky.
Day and Night video
Videos
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Interactives
Mystery Science
What if the Earth rotated backwards?
Seasons
Our seasons have everything to do about the tilt of the Earth. Without this tilt we wouldn't have our diverse ecosystems and all the interesting animals that live in them.
Tilt of the Earth
*Earth is tilted 23 degrees
*Always tilted the same amount
*Tilt of the Earth determines seasons
When a location is tilted toward the Sun it gets the most direct sunlight. These days are longer and warmer (summer).
When a location is tilted away from the Sun it gets less direct sunlight. These days are shorter and are colder.
*Earth is tilted 23 degrees
*Always tilted the same amount
*Tilt of the Earth determines seasons
When a location is tilted toward the Sun it gets the most direct sunlight. These days are longer and warmer (summer).
When a location is tilted away from the Sun it gets less direct sunlight. These days are shorter and are colder.
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This tilt, along with Earth’s revolution around the sun, affects the amount of direct sunlight that the Earth receives in a single day and throughout the year. The average daily temperature is related to the amount of direct sunlight received. Changes in average temperature throughout the year are identified as seasons.
Different regions around the world have seasonal changes that are not based solely on average temperature (e.g., rainy season, dry season, monsoon season)
Different regions around the world have seasonal changes that are not based solely on average temperature (e.g., rainy season, dry season, monsoon season)