PLANETARY PERTURBATION Meaning and
Definition
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Planetary perturbation refers to the gravitational influence that one celestial body exerts on another, resulting in a disturbance or alteration in their orbits. It occurs when the gravitational pull of one planet or celestial object affects the movement of another, causing deviations from its predicted path. This phenomenon is primarily observed in planetary systems, where the gravitational interactions between multiple planets or moons impact their trajectories.
The intricate dance of planetary perturbations is governed by Newton's laws of motion and gravity. As planets revolve around their host star, their individual gravitational fields create perturbations that can cause noticeable changes in their orbits over time. For instance, a close encounter between two planets can induce a gravitational tug that alters their elliptical paths, leading to variations in their distances from the star and orbital periods.
Planetary perturbations have played a vital role in understanding and predicting the movements of celestial bodies. Isaac Newton's studies in the 17th century paved the way for calculating perturbations and ultimately led to the discovery of Neptune. Perturbations also serve as a tool for astronomical observations, as they allow astronomers to determine the presence and properties of unseen celestial bodies. By tracking anomalies in the orbits of known planets, scientists can infer the existence of hidden planets or other massive objects.
In summary, planetary perturbation encompasses the gravitational effects that celestial bodies exert on each other, causing deviations in their orbital paths. It is a fundamental mechanism in the dynamics of planetary systems and has been essential in enhancing our understanding of the universe.
Common Misspellings for PLANETARY PERTURBATION
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Etymology of PLANETARY PERTURBATION
The word "planetary" comes from the Latin word "planeta", which means "wandering star" or "planet". It is derived from the Greek word "planetes", which has a similar meaning.
The term "perturbation" originates from the Latin word "perturbare", which means "to disturb" or "to throw into confusion". It is formed by combining the prefix "per-", meaning "thoroughly" or "completely", and the root "turbare", meaning "to agitate" or "to stir up".
Therefore, "planetary perturbation" refers to the disturbance or disruption caused by the gravitational interactions among planets or other celestial bodies in a planetary system.
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