EQUINOCTIAL POINT Meaning and
Definition
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An equinoctial point refers to either of the two points in the celestial sphere where the celestial equator intersects with the ecliptic, namely, the vernal equinox and the autumnal equinox. It represents the exact moments when the sun crosses the celestial equator during the equinoxes. In astronomy, the celestial equator is an imaginary line that divides the sky into northern and southern hemispheres, while the ecliptic represents the plane of Earth's orbit around the sun.
The vernal equinox, also known as the March equinox or spring equinox, marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere. It occurs around March 20-21 each year. The autumnal equinox, also known as the September equinox or fall equinox, marks the beginning of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere and spring in the Southern Hemisphere. It occurs around September 22-23 each year.
Equinoctial points hold great significance in terms of celestial navigation, timekeeping, and the study of seasons. They serve as crucial reference points for astronomers and are used to determine the precise locations of celestial objects. Additionally, the equinoctial points play a fundamental role in the determination of solstices, which mark the longest and shortest days of the year.
Common Misspellings for EQUINOCTIAL POINT
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Etymology of EQUINOCTIAL POINT
The word "equinoctial point" is derived from two different etymological sources.
1. Equinox: The word "equinox" comes from the Latin words "aequus" meaning "equal" and "nox" meaning "night". It refers to the two points in the year when day and night are approximately equal in length, occurring around March 21st and September 21st. The term was first used in English around the 14th century.
2. Point: The word "point" has its origins in the Latin word "punctum" meaning "prick" or "dot". It found its way into English in the 14th century, referring to a sharp end or a spot.
When combined, "equinoctial point" refers to the specific points in time during the year when the sun is exactly above the equator, resulting in equal day and night lengths.
Similar spelling words for EQUINOCTIAL POINT
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