Eccentricity (geophysical concept)

In geophysics, eccentricity measures how much an orbit (like Earth’s around the Sun) deviates from a perfect circle. An eccentricity of 0 indicates a perfect circle, while values approaching 1 indicate an elongated, oval shape. This concept helps scientists understand variations in Earth's orbit, which influence climate patterns over long periods, such as ice ages. Eccentricity is a key component in orbital mechanics and Milankovitch cycles, affecting how sunlight is distributed on Earth and driving changes in climate and geological processes.