Multiple choice general knowledge

The time taken by earth to complete one rotation :

  1. 24 hours

  2. 23 hours, 56 minutes, 4 seconds

  3. 24 hours, 20 minutes, 59 seconds

  4. None of the above
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The Earth's actual rotational period (sidereal day) is 23 hours, 56 minutes, 4 seconds - the time to rotate 360 degrees relative to distant stars. The 24-hour day is the solar day (time between noons), slightly longer because Earth also orbits the Sun. Option C is the sidereal day with 1 extra rotation per year accounted for.

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