The Earth rotates in an eastward direction, also known as prograde rotation. Viewed from above the North Pole, Earth rotates counter-clockwise.

Here are some key aspects of Earth's rotation:

• Axis of Rotation: Earth rotates around an imaginary line called the axis of rotation, which runs through the North and South Poles.
• Direction: As seen from above the North Pole, Earth rotates counterclockwise.
• Period: One complete rotation takes approximately 24 hours, which defines a day. More precisely, it's 23 hours, 56 minutes, and 4 seconds.
• Speed: The speed of rotation varies depending on the latitude. At the equator, the surface of the Earth moves at approximately 1,670 kilometers per hour (about 1,040 miles per hour). This speed decreases as you move towards the poles, where the rotational speed is nearly zero.
• Effects:
  • Day and Night: Earth's rotation is the primary cause of the cycle of day and night. As Earth rotates, different parts of the planet are exposed to sunlight, creating day, while the opposite side experiences night.
  • Coriolis Effect: The rotation of the Earth also causes the Coriolis effect, which deflects moving objects (like air and water currents) to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.
  • Tides: While tides are mainly caused by the gravitational pull of the Moon and the Sun, Earth's rotation also plays a role in their timing and height.

More information is available at these links:

• Royal Museums Greenwich
• ESA