Calculating Earth's Orbital Speed Using Star Spectra

In summary, Earth's orbital speed is the speed at which it moves around the sun in its orbit, measured at approximately 67,000 miles per hour or 107,000 kilometers per hour. It is calculated by measuring the distance traveled in a given amount of time. This speed can change slightly over time due to various factors and has a significant impact on our planet, determining the length of our year, the changing of the seasons, and the amount of sunlight and heat we receive. Compared to other planets in our solar system, Earth's orbital speed is relatively fast, ranking third behind Mercury and Venus and faster than the gas giants such as Jupiter and Saturn.
  • #1
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How can the earth’s orbital speed be determined from observations of the spectrum of a star?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Not sure if you want the entire answer, but here's a hint: over the course of a year, the direction of the Earth's orbital motion around the sun rotates through a full 360 degrees. How does this change the component of the velocity towards or away from the star being observed? What effect would this have on the observed spectrum?
 
  • #3
Right, I've been thinking about this, but I'm just not sure. Do you have an answer?
 
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1. What is Earth's orbital speed?

Earth's orbital speed is the speed at which it moves around the sun in its orbit. It is approximately 67,000 miles per hour or 107,000 kilometers per hour.

2. How is Earth's orbital speed measured?

Earth's orbital speed is measured by calculating the distance it travels in its orbit around the sun in a given amount of time. This is usually measured in miles per hour or kilometers per hour.

3. Does Earth's orbital speed change?

Yes, Earth's orbital speed does change slightly over time due to various factors such as the gravitational pull of other planets and the sun, as well as the changing shape of Earth's orbit.

4. What is the impact of Earth's orbital speed on our planet?

The speed at which Earth orbits the sun has a significant impact on our planet. It determines the length of our year, the changing of the seasons, and the amount of sunlight and heat we receive from the sun.

5. How does Earth's orbital speed compare to other planets?

Compared to other planets in our solar system, Earth's orbital speed is relatively fast. It is the third fastest planet, behind Mercury and Venus, and is faster than the gas giants such as Jupiter and Saturn.

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