If BOTH the direction of Earth's rotation about its axis and the direction of its revolution around the Sun were reversed,the length of a sidereal day would be:
A) 4 minutes shorter than a solar day, as it is now.
B) 4 minutes longer than a solar day.
C) the same length as a solar day.
D) 8 minutes shorter than a solar day.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A sidereal day is the time it takes for Earth to make one rotation on its axis relative to the fixed stars. A solar day is the time it takes for the Sun to appear in the same position in the sky. Currently, the length of a sidereal day is about 4 minutes shorter than a solar day because Earth is also moving around the Sun. If the direction of Earth's rotation and revolution were both reversed, the length of a sidereal day would still be about 23 hours and 56 minutes, but the direction of rotation would be opposite, resulting in a solar day that is about 4 minutes shorter. Therefore, choice A is the best answer.

If BOTH the Direction of Earth's Rotation About Its Axis