How far is the Earth from the sun?

In summary, the average distance between the Earth and the sun is about 93 million miles, measured in astronomical units (AU). This distance changes slightly throughout the year due to the Earth's elliptical orbit, with the closest distance being perihelion and the farthest distance being aphelion. The distance is calculated using parallax and is not constant, as it is affected by various factors such as the Earth's orbit, gravitational pull, and the sun's movement within our galaxy.
  • #1
Beanie
32
0

Homework Statement


Light from the sun reaches Earth in 8.3 min. How far is the Earth from the sun?
The velocity of light is 3 × 10^8 m/s.

Answer in units of m.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


8.3 min = 498 sec

3e8 x 498 = 1.494e11 m
 
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  • #2
Do you have a question?
 
  • #3
Compare with ' 149.6 million km ' - Yes , it is .
 
  • #4
@Beanie it's absolutely correct. An easy question, these patterns are just difficult if you mess up the calculation part.
 

1. How far is the Earth from the sun?

The average distance between the Earth and the sun is about 93 million miles.

2. What is the unit of measurement used to measure the distance between the Earth and the sun?

The unit of measurement used to measure the distance between the Earth and the sun is called an astronomical unit (AU). One AU is equal to about 93 million miles.

3. Does the distance between the Earth and the sun change?

Yes, the distance between the Earth and the sun changes slightly throughout the year due to the Earth's elliptical orbit. The closest distance is called perihelion and the farthest distance is called aphelion.

4. How is the distance between the Earth and the sun calculated?

The distance between the Earth and the sun is calculated using a method called parallax. This involves measuring the angle of the sun's position from two different points on Earth and using trigonometry to calculate the distance.

5. Is the distance between the Earth and the sun constant?

No, the distance between the Earth and the sun is not constant. It varies slightly due to factors such as the Earth's orbit, gravitational pull from other planets, and the sun's own movement within our galaxy.

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