physics planets

What causes orbits in space?

Orbits happen when gravity and an object's sideways speed balance each other. Gravity pulls the object in, but its speed keeps it from falling into the sun. Slowing down or more gravity can cause it to fall towards the sun.

What happens to planets in elliptical orbits when close to the Sun?

They speed up.

What happens to planets in elliptical orbits when far from the Sun?

They slow down.

During the Summer Solstice, how does Earth's axis tilt in relation to the Sun?

It tilts toward the Sun.

What is an effect of the Sun hitting Earth directly during the Summer Solstice?

Sunlight is warmer and days are longer.

What is the shortest day of the year called?

Winter Solstice.

During the Winter Solstice, how does Earth's axis tilt in relation to the Sun?

It tilts away from the Sun.

What happens to sunlight during the Winter Solstice?

It hits at a slant, making it weaker and colder.

What is an Equinox?

A time when day and night are exactly 12

Orbits

Are caused by a balance between gravity pulling objects inward and their horizontal velocity pushing them sideways.

Circular Orbits

Occur when the balance of gravity and velocity is perfect, resulting in a stable circular path.

Elliptical Orbits

Most orbits are elliptical due to variations in speed, which causes them to stretch into oval shapes.

Speed Changes in Orbits

Planets speed up when closer to the Sun and slow down when farther, due to the gravitational pull being stronger at shorter distances.

Comets' Orbits

Comets have very stretched elliptical orbits, making their paths more elongated than most planets.

Earth's Orbit

Earth's orbit is nearly circular, maintaining a relatively consistent distance from the Sun.

Tilted Axis

Earth's tilt causes seasons; different areas receive different amounts of sunlight throughout the year.

Summer Solstice

The longest day of the year when Earth's tilt is toward the Sun, resulting in direct sunlight.

Winter Solstice

The shortest day of the year when Earth's tilt is away from the Sun, causing sunlight to strike at a slant.

Equinox

Occurs twice a year when day and night are equal, happening in spring and autumn due to Earth's sideways tilt.