Aphelion: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Greek 'aphelion', meaning 'away from the sun' or 'distant from the sun'.
• It is formed from 'apo-', meaning 'away from', and 'helios', meaning 'sun'.
• This term was first used in the early 1600s in relation to planetary motion.

Astronomy

• Earth's aphelion occurs around July 4 each year, when it is about 94.5 million miles from the sun.
• Other planets in our solar system also have aphelion points; for example, Neptune's distance can reach over 30 astronomical units from the sun.
• Understanding aphelion helps scientists study seasonal changes, as Earth is farther from the sun during the Northern Hemisphere's summer.

Cultural Reference

• The concept of aphelion has inspired artists and writers who explore themes of distance and longing, often metaphorically connecting it to relationships.
• In science fiction, distant worlds' aphelion points are often used when depicting unique climates and conditions of alien planets.
• The word has appeared in various songs and poetry, emphasizing themes of separation and vastness.

Science

• The study of planetary orbits, including aphelion, is a key part of celestial mechanics.
• Understanding aphelion and its counterpart, perihelion (the closest point to the sun), is crucial for calculating the seasons on Earth.
• The eccentricity of a planet's orbit affects the difference in distance between its aphelion and perihelion, influencing its temperature and climate.

This word's position of #34,504 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 34501 asexually
• 34502 congealing
• 34503 libidinous
• 34504 aphelion
• 34505 currying
• 34506 hajj
• 34507 squeegee
• ...