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How fast does the earth spin?

Last Updated : 10 Feb, 2024
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Answer: The Earth rotates on its axis at a speed of approximately 1,670 kilometers per hour or 1,037 miles per hour every 24 hours.

The speed of Earth’s spin depends on locations. At different locations the speed is different.

  • At the equator: The Earth spins fastest at its equator, traveling at around 1,037 miles per hour (1,670 kilometers per hour). This movement is responsible for the creation of a 24-hour day-night cycle as different parts of the planet rotate towards and away from the sun.
  • Away from the equator: As you move towards the poles, the Earth’s circumference gets smaller, so the linear speed of rotation decreases. By the time you reach the poles, the speed drops to zero, but it’s important to remember that the poles themselves are still rotating with the rest of the planet.

Here are some additional facts about Earth’s rotation:

  • The Earth’s spin is gradually slowing down due to the tidal forces exerted by the Moon. This happens at a very slow rate, currently estimated to be about 1.7 milliseconds per century.
  • The Earth’s rotation is not perfectly constant. There are small disturbances and variations in speed caused by various factors, including atmospheric changes and ocean currents.
  • Even though we don’t feel the Earth spinning, the centrifugal force caused by the rotation affects various aspects of our planet, including the shape of the Earth (swalloing at the equator) and the distribution of winds and ocean currents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Earth spins at the speed of 1,000 miles per hour or 1,600 kilometer per hour on its axis for every 24-hours. But the speed of Earth’s spin depends on different locations, different locations have different speed.


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