Solstice and Equinox

Front

What is a solstice?

Back

A solstice is an astronomical event that occurs twice a year when the Sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, resulting in the longest and shortest days of the year.

Front

What is an equinox?

Back

An equinox is an astronomical event that occurs twice a year when day and night are approximately equal in length, marking the beginning of spring and autumn.

Front

When does the summer solstice occur in the northern hemisphere?

Back

The summer solstice occurs around June 21st.

Front

When does the winter solstice occur in the northern hemisphere?

Back

The winter solstice occurs around December 21st.

Front

What is the significance of the autumnal equinox?

Back

The autumnal equinox, occurring around September 22nd, marks the beginning of autumn in the northern hemisphere.

Front

What is the significance of the vernal equinox?

Back

The vernal equinox, occurring around March 21st, marks the beginning of spring in the northern hemisphere.

Front

How does Earth's tilt affect seasons?

Back

Earth's tilt on its axis (approximately 23.5 degrees) causes different parts of the Earth to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year, leading to the changing seasons.

Front

What happens at the poles during summer?

Back

During summer, the poles experience continuous daylight for about six months due to the tilt of the Earth's axis.

Front

What is the difference between a solstice and an equinox?

Back

A solstice marks the longest or shortest day of the year, while an equinox marks the time when day and night are of equal length.

Front

Which hemisphere experiences summer solstice in June?

Back

The northern hemisphere experiences summer solstice in June.