In order to keep the cumulative difference in GMT and UT to less than 0.9 seconds, a leap second is added to the atomic time to decrease the difference between the two. This leap second can be either positive or negative depending on the Earth's rotation. Since the first leap second in 1972, all leap seconds have been positive and there were 22 leap seconds in the 27 years to January, 1999.   This pattern reflects the general slowing trend of the Earth due to tidal braking.

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Quote from: jockIn order to keep the cumulative difference in GMT and UT to less than 0.9 seconds, a leap second is added to the atomic time to decrease the difference between the two. This leap second can be either positive or negative depending on the Earth's rotation. Since the first leap second in 1972, all leap seconds have been positive and there were 22 leap seconds in the 27 years to January, 1999.   This pattern reflects the general slowing trend of the Earth due to tidal braking.

Jock - with great respect & I know I asked the question & thank you for the response but I can only think or relate to some sort of gyrospohic stop/start effect - similar to a load on a paddle wheel - please do not hesitate to comment as I will simply go up stairs & make a few Vegemite toasted sandwiches for Sunday {breaky & a Fosters} & wait for your response - Derek