Precession of the rotation axis of Earth is caused by
A) the force of gravity from the sun and moon on Earth's equatorial bulge.
B) the force of gravity from the sun and Jupiter on the Earth-moon system.
C) the magnetic field of Earth.
D) the formation and subsequent melting of glaciers during the ice-ages.
E) the impact of asteroids.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The force of gravity from the sun and moon on Earth's equatorial bulge causes a torque that leads to a precession of the rotation axis. This is known as the precession of the equinoxes and takes about 26,000 years to complete one cycle. The other options do not have a significant impact on the precession of Earth's rotation axis.

Precession of the Rotation Axis of Earth Is Caused by