- #1
magheera
- 9
- 0
I know what each word mean independently, I'm just confused as to what sort of motion is trying to be described as a whole.
What is retrograde planetary perihelion precession?
- Thread starter magheera
- Start date
In summary, retrograde planetary perihelion precession is a phenomenon in which the point of closest approach of a planet to the sun moves in the opposite direction of the planet's orbital motion. All of the planets in our solar system experience this to some degree, with the amount of precession varying for each planet. It is primarily caused by the gravitational influence of other planets and has significant implications in the study of planetary dynamics and celestial mechanics. While it has been observed in all planets, its effects are too small to have any noticeable impact on Earth.
- #2
tiny-tim
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
- 25,839
- 258
hi magheera! 
perihelion precession means that the perihelion moves slightly each orbit
usually, this is prograde, which means in the same direction as the orbit itself
retrograde means the perihelion moves in the opposite direction to the orbit
perihelion precession means that the perihelion moves slightly each orbit
usually, this is prograde, which means in the same direction as the orbit itself
retrograde means the perihelion moves in the opposite direction to the orbit
- #3
magheera
- 9
- 0
fantastic! Thanks so much.
What is retrograde planetary perihelion precession?
Retrograde planetary perihelion precession is a phenomenon in which the point of closest approach of a planet to the sun (perihelion) moves in a retrograde direction, meaning that it moves in the opposite direction of the planet's orbital motion.
Which planets experience retrograde planetary perihelion precession?
All of the planets in our solar system experience retrograde planetary perihelion precession to some degree. However, the amount of precession varies for each planet and is influenced by factors such as the planet's mass and distance from the sun.
What causes retrograde planetary perihelion precession?
Retrograde planetary perihelion precession is primarily caused by the gravitational influence of other planets in the solar system. The combined gravitational forces of these planets can cause slight changes in a planet's orbit, resulting in precession.
What is the significance of retrograde planetary perihelion precession?
Retrograde planetary perihelion precession is an important phenomenon in the study of planetary dynamics and can provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of our solar system. It also has practical applications in the field of celestial mechanics.
Can retrograde planetary perihelion precession have any impact on Earth?
While retrograde planetary perihelion precession has been observed in all the planets in our solar system, its effects are too small to have any noticeable impact on Earth. The precession of Earth's perihelion is only about 11 arcseconds per century, making it a very slow and gradual process.
Similar threads
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics
-
Classical Physics
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics
-
Classical Physics
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics