Sun-Earth-Moon Interactions Our Solar System Sun-Earth-Moon Interactions
Two Solar System Models . . . Geocentric “Earth-centered” Planets orbit around Earth Partially explains the motions of the planets Rejected model
Two Solar System Models . . . Heliocentric “Sun-centered” Planets orbit sun Explains most motions of the planets Accepted model—better explanation of planetary motions!
Earth-Sun System The Earth’s revolution (path/orbit around) around our sun is . . . Counterclockwise!!! At perihelion when closest to sun . . . in January! At aphelion when farthest from sun . . . in July!
Our Sun . . . is NOT stationary ! Planets pull on it as they revolve Pulls cause sun to orbit the solar system’s barycenter (balance of masses of sun and orbiting planets). The sun is moving within our solar system but not much!
Earth-Moon System The moon is . . . Earth’s only satellite Approximately the same age as Earth The moon’s gravitational pull on Earth’s oceans produces tides. The sun’s gravity does too BUT the moon is so much closer that it is responsible for most tidal action!
Earth-Moon System The moon’s revolution of Earth is . . . Counterclockwise! At Perigee when closest to Earth At Apogee when farthest from Earth
Sizing the Solar System Stop about 6:30