Unit 5A Seasons

Front

What is insolation?

Back

Insolation refers to the amount of solar radiation received by a given area, typically measured in watts per square meter (W/m²). It varies based on the angle of the sun's rays and the time of year.

Front

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

Back

The Earth's axial tilt of approximately 23.5 degrees is crucial for the changing seasons. It affects the angle and intensity of sunlight received at different latitudes throughout the year.

Front

What is the relationship between insolation and temperature?

Back

Generally, higher insolation leads to higher temperatures. However, maximum temperature often occurs after maximum insolation due to the time it takes for the Earth's surface to absorb and re-radiate heat.

Front

What causes the seasons on Earth?

Back

Seasons are caused by the combination of the Earth's axial tilt and its revolution around the sun, leading to varying angles of sunlight at different times of the year.

Front

What latitude receives the most direct sunlight during summer solstice?

Back

During the summer solstice, the latitude that receives the most direct sunlight is 23.5° S, known as the Tropic of Capricorn.

Front

What is the difference between rotation and revolution?

Back

Rotation refers to the spinning of the Earth on its axis, which takes about 24 hours, while revolution refers to the Earth's orbit around the sun, which takes about 365.25 days.

Front

How does the Earth's rotation affect day and night?

Back

The Earth's rotation causes different parts of the planet to face the sun or move away from it, resulting in the cycle of day and night.

Front

What is the equator?

Back

The equator is an imaginary line that divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, located at 0° latitude, where sunlight is most direct year-round.

Front

What is the significance of the Tropic of Cancer?

Back

The Tropic of Cancer, located at 23.5° N latitude, is the northernmost point where the sun can be directly overhead at noon during the summer solstice.

Front

What is the significance of the Tropic of Capricorn?

Back

The Tropic of Capricorn, located at 23.5° S latitude, is the southernmost point where the sun can be directly overhead at noon during the winter solstice.