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Aphelion - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Aphelion is the point in an object’s orbit around the sun where it is farthest from the sun. This term is commonly used in astronomy to describe planetary motion.

aphelion

/əˈfiːliən/ /əˈfiːliən/

Definition:

The point in a planet's orbit farthest from the sun.

Synonyms:

apoapsis, far point, orbital extreme

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

perihelion, closest approach

Common Collocations:

Earth's aphelion, reach aphelion, calculate aphelion

Derivatives:

aphelic, aphelian

Usage Tips:

Use "aphelion" to describe the farthest orbital position from the sun in astronomy contexts.

Common Phrases:

at aphelion, beyond aphelion, near aphelion

Etymology:

From Greek "apo-" (away) + "helios" (sun), meaning "away from the sun."

Examples:

  • 1. Earth reaches its aphelion in early July each year.
  • 2. The comet's speed decreases as it nears aphelion.
  • 3. Scientists study planetary motion at aphelion and perihelion.
  • 4. Mars' aphelion is about 1.67 times its perihelion distance.

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