physics planets

Orbits happen because of a balance between gravity and motion. The Sun’s gravity pulls planets inward, while their sideways speed keeps them from falling in. If this balance is perfect, the orbit is circular (like a hula hoop). But most orbits are elliptical (stretched ovals) because planets move a little too fast or slow for a perfect circle. In elliptical orbits, planets speed up when close to the Sun (like a skateboarder zooming at the bottom of a ramp) and slow down when far away (like a swing pausing at the top). Gravity always pulls them back, so they keep looping forever! Comets have super-stretched elliptical orbits, while Earth’s is almost circular. It’s all about gravity and speed playing tug-of-war in space! 🚀

Earth’s tilted axis (like a leaning spinning top!) makes seasons and changes sunlight:

1. Summer Solstice (Hot! ☀):

   • Your part of Earth tilts toward the Sun (like leaning into a campfire).

   • Sunlight hits directly (not spread out) = warmer!

   • Longest day of the year.

2. Winter Solstice (Cold! ❄):

   • Your part of Earth tilts away from the Sun (like leaning back from a fire).

   • Sunlight hits at a slant (super spread out) = weaker & colder.

   • Shortest day of the year.

3. Equinox (Equal! ⚖):

   • Earth’s tilt is sideways to the Sun (not toward or away).

   • Day and night are exactly 12 hours each.

   • Happens in spring & autumn.