The tropical year is different from the sidereal year because
A) Earth precesses on its axis.
B) the Sun moves through the Galaxy.
C) Earth moves in its orbit.
D) Earth's orbit is elliptical.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tropical year is different from the sidereal year primarily because the Earth precesses on its axis. This axial precession affects the orientation of Earth's axis relative to the Sun, altering the timing of the seasons and thus the length of the tropical year compared to the sidereal year, which is measured by Earth's position relative to the stars.

The Tropical Year Is Different from the Sidereal Year Because