Earth orbit axis rotation tilt [information over pictures and comprehension quiz]

All of the planets orbit [go around] the Sun. Which is why it is called a Solar System.

They orbit the Sun in an anti-clockwise direction. That is opposite to a clock.

It takes the Earth 365 days [one year] to orbit the Sun. The animation also shows the Moon orbiting the Earth.

The Earth also rotates [spins] anti-clockwise on its axis.

The axis is an imaginary line through the Earth [north to south] shown here in yellow.

At some point in history it is thought that Earth was in collision with another smaller planet called Theia.

It is thought that most of Theia became part of the Earth. The debris is thought to have formed the Moon.

The collision however caused the Earth to develop a tilt of around 23 degrees. This animation shows how big that is.

The Earth rotates on its axis with a tilt of 23 degrees caused by a collision with Theia and takes 365 days to orbit the Sun.

Now try this little quiz to see if you have understood the notes.

1. What does the word rotate mean ?
anti-clockwise
to go around
to spin

2. Why is it thought the Earth has a tilt?
all planets have the same tilt
it was in collision with another planet
the Earth is naturally lopsided

3. How many degrees from upright is the tilt?
23
24
25

4. Where is it thought some of Theia went?
collected together to form the Moon
went flying off into space
became part of other planets

5. How long does it take for the Earth to orbit the Sun?
363 days
365 days
367 days

Look at each of the pictures. If you hover over the top left hand corner of each picture information is given. Important words are highlighted and explained. Your understanding of the information can be tested with a short quiz at the bottom of the activity.