Solar month

Definition

A solar month is the period it takes for the Sun to return to the same position in the sky as observed from Earth, typically averaging about 30.44 days. It represents one-twelfth of a tropical year, aligning closely with calendar months.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A solar month averages approximately 30.44 days.
2. It represents one-twelfth of a tropical year.
3. The concept of a solar month helps align the calendar with Earth's orbit around the Sun.
4. Solar months vary slightly in length due to Earth's elliptical orbit.
5. Understanding solar months is essential for grasping how calendars relate to astronomical phenomena.

Review Questions

• What is the average length of a solar month?
• How does a solar month relate to a tropical year?
• Why might the length of a solar month vary slightly over time?

Related terms

Tropical Year:

The time it takes for Earth to complete one orbit around the Sun relative to the vernal equinox, approximately 365.24 days.

Lunar Month: The period it takes for the Moon to complete one full cycle of phases, averaging about 29.53 days.

Elliptical Orbit:

The oval-shaped path that celestial bodies follow around larger masses due to gravitational forces.