Seasons, Equinoxes & Solstices

Front

What causes the seasons?

Back

The tilt of the Earth's axis.

Front

When is the noon sun directly overhead at the equator?

Back

During an equinox.

Front

How long is one revolution of the Earth around the Sun?

Back

About 365 days.

Front

What is the summer solstice?

Back

The longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere, occurring around June 21.

Front

What is the winter solstice?

Back

The shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere, occurring around December 21.

Front

What is an equinox?

Back

A time when day and night are of equal length, occurring in spring and autumn.

Front

At what angle is the Earth tilted?

Back

23.5 degrees.

Front

What is the significance of the Earth's axial tilt?

Back

It affects the intensity and duration of sunlight received at different latitudes, causing seasons.

Front

What happens during the vernal equinox?

Back

Spring begins in the northern hemisphere, and day and night are approximately equal.

Front

What happens during the autumnal equinox?

Back

Autumn begins in the northern hemisphere, and day and night are approximately equal.