Distance between the earth and the moon

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In summary, the average distance between the earth and the moon is approximately 238,855 miles (384,400 kilometers), measured using the Astronomical Unit (AU). This distance is not constant due to the moon's elliptical orbit. Light takes about 1.3 seconds to travel from the moon to the earth. Our understanding of this distance has evolved over time, with advancements in technology allowing for more precise measurements.
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pinkyjoshi65
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I searched the net for the distance between the Earth and the moon in m, but different sites give me different answers. What is the distance between the Earth and the moon in metres?
 
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This site's value should be close enough: Wiki: Moon
 
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I can confirm that the distance between the Earth and the moon is not a fixed number and can vary slightly due to various factors such as the moon's orbit and the Earth's rotation. However, the most commonly accepted average distance is approximately 384,400 kilometers or 238,855 miles. In meters, this would be 384,400,000 meters. It is important to note that while there may be slight variations in the exact distance, the average value is widely accepted and used in scientific calculations and measurements.
 

FAQ: Distance between the earth and the moon

What is the average distance between the earth and the moon?

The average distance between the earth and the moon is approximately 238,855 miles (384,400 kilometers).

How is the distance between the earth and the moon measured?

The distance between the earth and the moon is measured using a unit called the Astronomical Unit (AU). This is defined as the average distance between the earth and the sun, which is approximately 93 million miles (149.6 million kilometers). The distance between the earth and the moon is then calculated using this unit.

Is the distance between the earth and the moon constant?

No, the distance between the earth and the moon is not constant. The moon's orbit around the earth is not a perfect circle, but rather an ellipse. This means that the distance between the earth and the moon varies throughout the moon's orbit.

How long does it take for light to travel from the moon to the earth?

Light travels at a speed of approximately 186,282 miles (299,792 kilometers) per second. Therefore, it takes about 1.3 seconds for light to travel from the moon to the earth.

How has our understanding of the distance between the earth and the moon evolved over time?

Our understanding of the distance between the earth and the moon has evolved greatly over time. In ancient times, it was believed that the moon was much closer to the earth. It wasn't until the 17th century that scientists were able to calculate a relatively accurate distance using trigonometry and measurements of parallax. With advancements in technology, we are now able to measure the distance with even greater precision.

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