Reasons for the Seasons - NYSSLS Earth & Space Science

What is the primary reason Earth has seasons?

• Changes in Earth–Sun distance

• Changes in Earth’s magnetic field

• Earth’s axial tilt combined with its revolution

• Changes in Sun’s energy output

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

How large is Earth’s axial tilt relative to its orbital plane?

• 0°

• 13.5°

• 23.5°

• 45°

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

During the June solstice, the Northern Hemisphere experiences:

• Shortest day, lowest Sun angle

• Longest day, highest Sun angle

• Equal day and night

• No sunrise

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

During the December solstice, New York most likely has:

• ~15 hours daylight

• ~12 hours daylight

• ~9 hours daylight

• 24 hours daylight

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Which date typically corresponds to the vernal equinox in the Northern Hemisphere?

• June 21

• March 21

• September 23

• December 21

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

On an equinox, which statement is true for most locations on Earth?

• Day > Night by 2 hours

• Night > Day by 2 hours

• Day ≈ Night (about 12 hours each)

• No sunrise at the poles

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Which statement best contrasts solstice and equinox?

• Solstice = equal day/night; Equinox = longest/shortest day

• Solstice = longest/shortest day; Equinox = equal day/night

• Both have equal day/night

• Both have 24 hours daylight globally

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

If Earth’s tilt increased above 23.5°, seasons would become:

• Less extreme

• More extreme

• Unchanged

• Eliminated

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

If Earth’s axis had no tilt, what would happen to seasons?

• More extreme

• Reverse between hemispheres

• Nearly no seasonal change

• Only winter worldwide

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS1-1

Which location has minimal seasonal change in daylight and temperature?

• 60° N

• 34° S

• 0° (Equator)

• 80° N