Variations in the shape of the earth's orbit:
A) have a cycle of about 100,000 years.
B) are related to changes in sunspot activity on the surface of the Sun.
C) will eventually lead to the earth having a perfectly circular orbit.
D) have a cycle of about three million years.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Variations in the shape of the earth's orbit have a cycle known as eccentricity, which lasts approximately 100,000 years. This cycle is caused by gravitational forces acting on the earth from other objects in the Solar System, primarily Jupiter and Saturn. The eccentricity of the earth's orbit affects the amount of solar radiation that reaches the earth, which can impact climate over long periods of time.

Variations in the Shape of the Earth's Orbit