Many people are aware of the fact that the Earth revolves around the sun every 24 hours, but they don’t are aware that the Earth’s rotational speed fluctuates slightly. This means that a day may sometimes feel longer article source or shorter than what we would expect. That is why the timekeeping atomic clocks which maintain standardized time have to be periodically adjusted by adding or subtracting a second. This change is known as leap seconds. This article will explain how this change occurs and why it is important to our daily schedules.
Precession is a typical rotating event. It is the cyclical wobble in the axis of the Earth, similar to a toy top that spins slightly off-center. The change in axial direction relative to fixed stars (inertial space) is observed for a period of 25,771.5 years. This is also responsible for the direction of cyclones both in the Northern Hemisphere as well as the Southern Hemisphere. Other rotating events include free nutation, the Chandler wobble and polar motion.
In addition to these recurring occasions, the rotator’s speed can also be affected by weather conditions and other factors including earthquakes. If the core of Earth rotates faster, a day can feel shorter. This change is due tidal force acting on the Earth’s surface as well as the gravitational pulls on other major objects in the Solar System such as Jupiter and Saturn. This is why it’s important to consider the Earth’s rotational velocity when creating fun park rides such as Ferris wheels and Carousels.
