The equation of time expresses the difference between LAT and LMT.

Get ready for the Geodesy Board Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Ace your test!

Multiple Choice

The equation of time expresses the difference between LAT and LMT.

Explanation:
The equation of time is about how far the Sun’s actual position in the sky (Local Apparent Time) is from the time kept by the mean Sun (Local Mean Time). Since the Sun’s motion across the sky isn’t exactly uniform because Earth travels in an elliptical orbit and is tilted, the apparent solar time and mean solar time diverge throughout the year. By convention, this difference is defined as Local Apparent Time minus Local Mean Time. When the Sun is ahead of its mean position, the equation of time is positive; when it’s behind, it’s negative. This difference typically stays within about a quarter of an hour.

The equation of time is about how far the Sun’s actual position in the sky (Local Apparent Time) is from the time kept by the mean Sun (Local Mean Time). Since the Sun’s motion across the sky isn’t exactly uniform because Earth travels in an elliptical orbit and is tilted, the apparent solar time and mean solar time diverge throughout the year. By convention, this difference is defined as Local Apparent Time minus Local Mean Time. When the Sun is ahead of its mean position, the equation of time is positive; when it’s behind, it’s negative. This difference typically stays within about a quarter of an hour.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy