Earthsky
Why a Day on Earth is 24 Hours Long
The Earth's Rotation
The Earth's rotation on its axis is what causes day and night. As the Earth rotates, different parts of the planet are exposed to the Sun's light, while other parts are in darkness. The time it takes for the Earth to complete one full rotation is 24 hours, or one day.
The Earth's Orbit
The Earth's orbit around the Sun also plays a role in the length of a day. The Earth's orbit is not perfectly circular, but rather elliptical. This means that the distance between the Earth and the Sun varies throughout the year. When the Earth is closest to the Sun, it moves faster in its orbit. This makes the days slightly shorter.
Other Factors
There are several other factors that can affect the length of a day, including the Earth's tilt, the movement of the Earth's core, and even the tides. However, these factors have a relatively small impact on the overall length of a day.
Conclusion
So, why is a day on Earth 24 hours long? It is a result of the Earth's rotation on its axis, the Earth's orbit around the Sun, and several other factors. The length of a day is a fundamental part of our planet's climate and ecology, and it is something that we take for granted.
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