Many people are aware that the Earth revolves around the sun each day for 24 hours, but not all realize that our planet’s rotational speed fluctuates slightly. This means that a day may sometimes feel shorter or longer than expected. This is why the Atomic clocks that regulate standard time have to be periodically adjusted by adding or subtracting seconds. This change is known as a leap second. This article will explain how this shift takes place, and how it’s important to our daily schedules.
Precession is a common rotating event. It is the cyclical wiggle in Earth’s axis, similar to a toy top that spins slightly off-center. The axial direction change relative to fixed stars (inertial space) has a cycle of 25,771.5 years. It’s also responsible for changing the directions of cyclones in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere. Other rotating events include the Chandler wobble free nutation, polar motion.
The rotator’s speed can be affected by other variables, including weather conditions, earthquakes, and other regular events. If the core of Earth rotates faster, a day feels shorter. This change is due to tidal force exerted on the Earth’s surface as well as the gravity pulls of other massive objects in the Solar System such as Jupiter and Saturn. This is why it’s important to take into account the Earth’s speed of rotation when creating fun park rides such as Ferris wheels and Carousels.
