Solstice and Equinox

Front

What is a solstice?

Back

A solstice is an event that occurs when the sun's rays reach their highest or lowest point in respect to the equator, resulting in the longest or shortest day of the year.

Front

What is an equinox?

Back

An equinox occurs when the sun's rays shine most directly on the equator, resulting in equal hours of daylight and darkness everywhere on Earth.

Front

How is the Earth tilted?

Back

The Earth is tilted on its axis, which is an imaginary line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole.

Front

What happens during a summer solstice?

Back

During a summer solstice, the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, resulting in the longest day of the year.

Front

What happens during a winter solstice?

Back

During a winter solstice, the sun reaches its lowest point in the sky, resulting in the shortest day of the year.

Front

What are the two equinoxes called?

Back

The two equinoxes are called the vernal (spring) equinox and the autumnal (fall) equinox.

Front

When do the equinoxes occur?

Back

The vernal equinox occurs around March 21, and the autumnal equinox occurs around September 23.

Front

What is the significance of the equinoxes?

Back

The equinoxes mark the change of seasons and are significant for agricultural practices and cultural celebrations.

Front

What causes the seasons on Earth?

Back

The tilt of the Earth's axis and its orbit around the sun cause the seasons, affecting the angle and intensity of sunlight received.

Front

What is the difference between a solstice and an equinox?

Back

A solstice marks the longest or shortest day of the year due to the sun's highest or lowest point, while an equinox marks equal daylight and darkness.