Sun and the Seasons

Front

What is the tilt of Earth's axis and how does it affect seasons?

Back

The tilt of Earth's axis is approximately 23.5°. It affects the seasons by changing the angle and intensity of sunlight received at different latitudes throughout the year.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What happens to summer and winter temperatures if Earth's axial tilt increases?

Back

If Earth's axial tilt increases from 23.5° to 30°, summers would become warmer and winters would become cooler.

Front

At solar noon in New York State, which direction is a student facing?

Back

At solar noon in New York State, a student is facing north.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is the significance of Polaris in relation to Earth's axis?

Back

Polaris, also known as the North Star, is the star toward which the northern end of Earth's axis points, remaining relatively fixed in the sky.

Front

What is insolation and how does it vary with seasons?

Back

Insolation is the amount of solar radiation received by a given area. It varies with seasons due to the tilt of Earth's axis, affecting the angle and intensity of sunlight.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What is the apparent path of the Sun on March 21 for an observer at the equator?

Back

On March 21, the Sun rises directly in the east and sets directly in the west for an observer at the equator, marking the equinox.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

How does the angle of insolation change from March 21 to June 21?

Back

The angle of insolation increases from March 21 to June 21, resulting in more direct sunlight and higher temperatures.

Front

What is the difference in intensity of insolation between March 21 and June 21?

Back

The intensity of insolation is greater on June 21 compared to March 21 due to the higher angle of sunlight.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Front

What are the four main positions of Earth in relation to the Sun during the year?

Back

The four main positions are: perihelion (closest to the Sun), aphelion (farthest from the Sun), summer solstice, and winter solstice.

Front

What is the role of Earth's axial tilt in creating seasons?

Back

Earth's axial tilt causes different parts of the planet to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year, leading to the changing seasons.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1