Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 2: Problem 15

What is the ecliptic plane? What is the ecliptic?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The ecliptic plane is an imaginary plane created by Earth’s orbit around the Sun. The ecliptic is the apparent path that the Sun traces out on this plane over one year, as observed from Earth. Essentially, they describe the framework for Earth's orbit and its observational implications.

Step by step solution

01

Define The Ecliptic Plane

The ecliptic plane is an imaginary plane that is created by Earth's orbit around the Sun. This plane extends infinitely into space, and it serves as the reference plane for other astronomical objects.
02

Define The Ecliptic

The ecliptic is the circular path on this imaginary plane, that the Sun appears to trace in the sky over the course of a year as observed from Earth. Essentially, it’s the Earth's path projected onto the sky. It is important to note that our observation of the Sun moving is an apparent motion, as it reflects the reality of Earth revolving around the Sun.
03

Explain the Connection

The ecliptic plane and the ecliptic are closely connected. While the ecliptic plane refers to the plane of Earth's orbit around the Sun, the ecliptic signifies the perceived path of the Sun on this plane as seen from Earth. Hence, they belong to the same spatial framework and just denote different aspects of Earth’s and the Sun’s movement.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

Why is it convenient to divide the Earth into time zones?

What are the vernal and the autumnal equinoxes? What are the summer and winter solstices? How are these four points related to the ecliptic and the celestial equator?

How many degrees is the angle from the horizon to the zenith? Does your answer depend on what point on the horizon you choose?

Why is the time given by a sundial not necessarily the same as the time on your wristwatch?

Where on Earth do you have to be in order to see the north celestial pole directly overhead? What is the maximum possible elevation of the Sun above the horizon at that location? On what date can this maximum elevation be observed?
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Physics Textbooks

Magnetism and Electromagnetic Induction

Read Explanation

Translational Dynamics

Read Explanation

Medical Physics

Read Explanation

Turning Points in Physics

Read Explanation

Atoms and Radioactivity

Read Explanation

Engineering Physics

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free