Earth's rapid rotation makes its axis sweep out the shape of a cone, like a heavy top slowing down. This motion is known as ____.
A) momentum
B) precession
C) revolution
D) precision
E) recession

Question

Earth's rapid rotation makes its axis sweep out the shape of a cone, like a heavy top slowing down.  This motion is known as ____.
A) momentum
B) precession
C) revolution
D) precision
E) recession

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct term for the motion where Earth's axis sweeps out the shape of a cone due to its rapid rotation is "precession." This is a gradual change or wobble in the orientation of Earth's axis.

Earth's Rapid Rotation Makes Its Axis Sweep Out the Shape