What does pericentre mean?
The pericentre is the point in an elliptical orbit of a celestial body where it is closest to the body it is orbiting. This concept is crucial in understanding the dynamics of celestial mechanics and the behavior of objects in our solar system. The pericentre is often used in astronomy to describe the closest point in an orbit, while the apocentre is used to describe the farthest point. The pericentre is a fundamental concept in understanding the orbits of planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. It is also used in the study of binary and multiple star systems, where the pericentre of one star's orbit around another can have a significant impact on the system's overall dynamics. The pericentre is a key factor in determining the stability and behavior of celestial systems, making it an essential concept in astronomy and astrophysics.
nounThe point in an elliptical orbit of a celestial body where it is closest to the body it is orbiting.
- The point in an elliptical orbit of a celestial body where it is closest to the body it is orbiting.
"The pericentre of the Earth's orbit around the Sun is at a distance of about 91.5 million miles."
"The pericentre of the Earth's orbit around the Sun is at a distance of about 91.5 million miles."
"The spacecraft will pass through the pericentre of the asteroid's orbit on its way to the surface."
The plural form 'pericentres' is used to describe multiple celestial bodies or their orbits.
"The pericentres of the planets in our solar system are all at different distances from the Sun."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of pericentre
The word 'pericentre' comes from the Greek words 'peri' meaning 'around' and 'kentron' meaning 'centre'. This term was first used in the 17th century to describe the closest point in an elliptical orbit. The concept of the pericentre has been studied extensively in astronomy and has been used to describe the orbits of celestial bodies in our solar system and beyond.
How pericentre is actually used
In astronomy, the pericentre is often used to describe the closest point in an elliptical orbit, while the apocentre is used to describe the farthest point.