Winter Solstice

What is the winter solstice?

• The longest day of the year

• The shortest day of the year

• The day with the most snowfall

• The day when the Earth is closest to the sun

When does the winter solstice usually occur in the Northern Hemisphere?

• December 1 or 2

• December 21 or 22

• January 21 or 22

• November 21 or 22

What happens to the length of the day after the winter solstice?

• Days become shorter

• Days remain the same length

• Days become longer

• Days become unpredictable

In the Southern Hemisphere, when does the winter solstice occur?

• December

• March

• June

• September

What is the difference between the astronomical and meteorological first day of winter?

• Astronomical is based on temperature, meteorological is based on the calendar

• Astronomical is based on the calendar, meteorological is based on temperature

• Both are based on the calendar

• Both are based on temperature

Why is the winter solstice not the coldest day of the year?

• The Earth is closest to the sun

• The Earth’s land and water take time to cool down

• The sun is at its highest point in the sky

• The Earth is tilted towards the sun

What happens to your shadow at noon on the winter solstice?

• It is the shortest shadow of the year

• It is the longest shadow of the year

• It disappears completely

• It remains the same as any other day

What does the word "solstice" mean in Latin?

• Sun moves fast

• Sun stands still

• Sun disappears

• Sun rises high

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During the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, which pole is tilted away from the sun?

• North Pole

• South Pole

• Both poles

• Neither pole

What marks the transition from fall to winter for many people?

• The summer solstice

• The winter solstice

• The spring equinox

• The autumn equinox