Reasons for the Seasons

Nearly 150 million kilometers separate the sun and Earth, yet solar radiation drives Earth's weather. At it’s Surface, the earth maintains an average temp of 59F With a wide range of temperature readings -121F during the Antarctica night 122F in deserts

Does the distance from the Sun make the Seasons? NO The Earth is actually farther away from the Sun when we have our Summer. July 6th January 3rd

Perihelion- Earth is closer to the Sun January 3rd

Aphelion- Earth is farthest from the Sun July 6th

What is the angle of the tilt of the axis? Reason for the Seasons 1. The Earth’s tilt causes the seasons It is tilted at 23.5 degrees What is the angle of the tilt of the axis? 23.5°

The angle of the sun’s radiation hitting the Earth impacts the climate or temperature.

If the tilt were the only factor, then every location on Earth would have one season and it would never change.

2. Earth’s Revolution Causes the Suns rays to strike at different locations as the Earth orbits the Sun.

When northern hemisphere is facing the sun: •Summer Solstice June 21st or 22nd

SUMMER SOLSTICE Most direct rays over Northern Hemisphere Striking at Tropic of Cancer 23.5° N Light = 15 hours (about 14.27 (NC) Dark = 9 hours

Antarctica is completely dark for 24 hours and the Arctic is completely light for 24 hours!!!

Fall Equinox (September 22 or 23)

Direct rays over Equator: EQUAL amounts of daylight and darkness everywhere. Direct rays over Equator: Light = 12 hours Dark = 12 hours

Winter Solstice - December 21-22 SHORTEST DAY !!! Most direct rays over Southern hemisphere •Striking at Tropic of Capricorn 23.5°S Light = 9 hours Dark = 15 hours

Spring Equinox (March 21 or 22)

Direct rays over Equator: EQUAL amounts of daylight and darkness everywhere. Direct rays over Equator: Light = 12 hours Dark = 12 hours

The Southern Hemisphere has opposite Seasons than us . . . WHY?