8+ What is Orbital Period? Definition & Examples

what is orbital period

8+ What is Orbital Period? Definition & Examples

The duration required for a celestial body to complete one revolution around another is a fundamental concept in astronomy and astrophysics. This temporal measure, often expressed in units of time such as seconds, days, or years, depends on factors including the mass of the central body and the semi-major axis of the orbiting object’s path. For instance, Earth requires approximately 365.25 days to complete one circuit around the Sun, defining a terrestrial year.

Understanding this value is essential for predicting the positions of planets, satellites, and other celestial bodies. It plays a crucial role in space mission planning, allowing scientists to calculate launch windows and trajectory corrections. Historically, accurate determination of these periods has aided in developing a deeper understanding of gravitational forces and celestial mechanics, leading to advancements in fields ranging from navigation to cosmology.

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6+ What *is* Full-Potential Local-Orbital? Explained

what does full-potential local-orbital mean

6+ What *is* Full-Potential Local-Orbital? Explained

This approach in electronic structure calculations refers to a method where the electron density is described using atom-centered basis functions that are localized in space. Simultaneously, it accurately represents the effects of the core electrons and the full, non-spherical shape of the potential around each atom in the system. For instance, when calculating the electronic properties of a complex material like a transition metal oxide, this method allows for a precise description of the electronic interactions near the metal atoms, where the electronic environment is far from spherically symmetric.

The significance of this methodology lies in its ability to provide highly accurate results for a wide range of materials, including those with complex electronic structures or strong electronic correlations. By incorporating the full atomic potential, it avoids approximations that can lead to inaccuracies, particularly in systems where the electronic charge distribution is highly anisotropic. Historically, this approach has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the electronic and magnetic properties of solids, facilitating the prediction and design of new materials with desired functionalities.

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