+95 votes
in Astrophysics by
edited by

Your answer

Your name to display (optional):
Privacy: Your email address will only be used for sending these notifications.
+14 votes
by

The Earth is moving through space at an incredibly high speed. There are two main components to its motion:

  1. Rotation: The Earth rotates on its axis, completing one full rotation in approximately 24 hours. This rotational speed varies depending on the latitude, with points near the equator moving faster than those near the poles. At the equator, the rotational speed is about 1,670 kilometers per hour (1,040 miles per hour).

  2. Orbit around the Sun: The Earth also orbits around the Sun in an elliptical path. It takes approximately 365.25 days to complete one orbit, resulting in a mean orbital speed of about 107,280 kilometers per hour (66,600 miles per hour). This speed is an average, as the Earth's orbit is slightly elliptical, and its speed varies throughout the year.

Additionally, it's important to note that the Earth is part of the Solar System, which itself is moving within the Milky Way galaxy. The Milky Way is rotating, and as a result, the Solar System is also in motion, although at a much slower pace compared to the Earth's rotation and orbit around the Sun. The exact speed and direction of the Solar System's motion within the galaxy are challenging to measure precisely.

Overall, when considering the Earth's rotation, orbit around the Sun, and the Solar System's motion within the galaxy, the Earth is moving at an astonishing speed through space.

Welcome to Physicsgurus Q&A, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of the community.
...