Flashcard - Earth's Movement, Seasons Solstice/Equinox

Front

What is the vernal equinox?

Back

The vernal equinox is the point in spring when day and night are approximately equal in length, occurring around March 20 or 21 in the Northern Hemisphere.

Front

What is the autumnal equinox?

Back

The autumnal equinox is the point in fall when day and night are approximately equal in length, occurring around September 22 or 23 in the Northern Hemisphere.

Front

Where does sunlight hit Earth’s surface most directly?

Back

Sunlight hits the Earth's surface most directly at the equator.

Front

What season is it in the Northern Hemisphere when it is tilted away from the Sun?

Back

It is winter in the Northern Hemisphere when it is tilted away from the Sun.

Front

What is the tilt of the Earth?

Back

The Earth is tilted at an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees.

Front

What is the longest day of the year called?

Back

The longest day of the year is called the summer solstice.

Front

What is the summer solstice?

Back

The summer solstice is the point in summer when the Sun reaches its highest point in the sky, resulting in the longest day of the year, occurring around June 21.

Front

What is the winter solstice?

Back

The winter solstice is the point in winter when the Sun reaches its lowest point in the sky, resulting in the shortest day of the year, occurring around December 21.

Front

What happens during an equinox?

Back

During an equinox, day and night are approximately equal in length.

Front

What is the significance of the equator?

Back

The equator is the imaginary line that divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and is where sunlight is most direct.