Perihelion

Quick meaning: Perihelion is a noun meaning (astronomy) The point in the elliptical orbit of a comet, planet, etc., where it is nearest to the Sun.

Meaning

(astronomy) The point in the elliptical orbit of a comet, planet, etc., where it is nearest to the Sun.

More Meanings

1. (figurative) The highest point or state; the peak, zenith.

Example Sentences

This rotational motion could have the axis of minimum moments of inertia nearly aligned with the Sun–Mercury radius vector at every perihelion passage.

In this case, the rate of advance of the perihelia of their elliptical orbits provides important information about the masses of the neutron stars as well as providing very sensitive tests of general relativity itself.

[T]he magnificence of his compliment had quite shaken the general's [Ulysses S. Grant's] modesty, and that he could only say that France must come to the perihelion of her glory under such rulers as Grevy [i.e., Jules Grévy].

The longitude of the comet is not usually specified at a particular epoch. Rather, the epoch is given when the comet is at perihelion, the point of its closest approach to the Sun. [...] Note that, as in the case of the planetary elements, we have specified ϖ, the longitude of the perihelion.

Word Forms

• perihelia
• perihelions

Synonyms for perihelion

Depending on context, synonyms include acme, apex, zenith, apogee, apotheosis, ascendance.

Antonyms for perihelion

Common opposites include aphelion.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include aphelion, perihelium, pericenter, perigee, periherm, apsis.

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