Rotation, Revolution, Seasons

Front

What is rotation?

Back

Rotation is when the Earth spins around its own axis. It takes about 24 hours to complete one rotation.

Front

What is revolution?

Back

Revolution is when the Earth travels around the Sun. It takes about 365 days to complete one revolution.

Front

What are the four seasons?

Back

The four seasons are spring, summer, fall (autumn), and winter.

Front

What is a solstice?

Back

A solstice is a time when the Sun is at its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, marking the longest and shortest days of the year.

Front

What is an equinox?

Back

An equinox is a time when day and night are of equal length, occurring in spring and fall.

Front

When does summer start in the Northern Hemisphere?

Back

Summer starts on the summer solstice, around June 21.

Front

When does winter start in the Northern Hemisphere?

Back

Winter starts on the winter solstice, around December 21.

Front

What season is it in the Northern Hemisphere during December?

Back

It is winter in the Northern Hemisphere during December.

Front

What happens during the summer solstice?

Back

During the summer solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted closest to the Sun, resulting in the longest day of the year.

Front

What happens during the winter solstice?

Back

During the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest from the Sun, resulting in the shortest day of the year.