Seasons Explained: Solstices and Equinoxes in Science and Geography

The video explains the differences between solstices and equinoxes, which are key astronomical events caused by Earth's axial tilt. Solstices mark the longest and shortest days of the year, occurring when the sun is farthest from the equator. Equinoxes occur when the sun is directly over the equator, resulting in equal day and night lengths. The video also highlights how these events differ between the northern and southern hemispheres and their significance in marking the start of seasons.

What causes the different seasons on Earth?

• The distance of Earth from the Sun

• The tilt of Earth's axis

• The speed of Earth's rotation

• The shape of Earth's orbit

What is the main characteristic of a solstice?

• Longest or shortest day of the year

• Equal day and night

• Sun directly over the equator

• Sun directly over the poles

In the northern hemisphere, when does the summer solstice occur?

• Around September 23rd

• Around June 21st

• Around December 21st

• Around March 21st

Which hemisphere experiences summer in December?

• Northern hemisphere

• Neither hemisphere

• Southern hemisphere

• Both hemispheres

What marks the beginning of spring in the northern hemisphere?

• Winter solstice

• Summer solstice

• Vernal equinox

• Autumnal equinox

During an equinox, what is true about the length of day and night?

• Day and night are of equal length

• Night is longer than day

• Day is longer than night

• Day and night lengths vary by location

What does the term 'equi' in equinox mean?

• Sun

• Night

• Day

• Equal

Which of the following is a mnemonic device for remembering equinoxes?

• Tropic means turn, capricorn means goat

• Vernal means spring, autumnal means fall

• Equi means equal, nox means night

• Sol means sun, stice means stand

What is the main difference between solstices and equinoxes?

• Solstices are only in the northern hemisphere, equinoxes are global

• Solstices are the longest and shortest days, equinoxes have equal day and night

• Solstices are in summer and winter, equinoxes are in spring and fall

• Solstices occur twice a year, equinoxes occur four times

What is a common cultural significance of solstices and equinoxes?

• They are used to predict weather patterns

• They are often associated with celebrations and festivals

• They are used to determine the start of the calendar year

• They are only significant in ancient cultures