barycentre Definition
the center of mass of two or more bodies that are orbiting around each other, also known as the center of gravity.
Using barycentre: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "barycentre" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The barycenter of the Earth-Moon system is located about 1,700 km below the surface of the Earth.
Example
The barycenter of the Sun-Jupiter system is outside the surface of the Sun.
Example
The barycenter of a binary star system is the point around which the stars orbit.
barycentre Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for barycentre
- center of mass
- center of gravity
Phrases with barycentre
barycentric coordinates
a coordinate system that uses the barycenter of a celestial body as its origin
Example
Barycentric coordinates are used to calculate the positions of planets and other celestial objects.
the velocity of an object relative to the barycenter of a celestial system
Example
The barycentric velocity of a planet can be used to determine its orbit around a star.
the motion of an object relative to the barycenter of a celestial system
Example
The barycentric motion of a star can be used to detect the presence of planets orbiting it.
Origins of barycentre
from Greek 'barus' meaning 'heavy' and 'kentron' meaning 'center'
Summary: barycentre in Brief
'Barycentre' [ˈbæriˌsɛntə] refers to the center of mass or gravity of two or more celestial bodies in orbit around each other. It is used to calculate the positions, velocities, and motions of planets, stars, and other celestial objects. Examples include the barycenter of the Earth-Moon system and the barycenter of a binary star system.