In a paragraph, describe why the seasons change.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for an explanation of the reasons behind the changing seasons. This involves discussing the tilt of the Earth's axis and its orbit around the Sun, which lead to variations in sunlight and temperature throughout the year.
Answer
The Earth's tilted axis leads to different sun exposure, causing seasonal changes.
The changing seasons are primarily due to Earth's tilted axis, which is inclined at an angle of about 23.5 degrees relative to its orbit around the Sun. This tilt causes different parts of Earth to experience varying intensities and durations of sunlight throughout the year. As Earth orbits the Sun, the hemisphere tilted towards the Sun experiences warmer temperatures and longer days resulting in summer, while the opposite hemisphere, tilted away, experiences cooler temperatures and shorter days leading to winter.
Answer for screen readers
The changing seasons are primarily due to Earth's tilted axis, which is inclined at an angle of about 23.5 degrees relative to its orbit around the Sun. This tilt causes different parts of Earth to experience varying intensities and durations of sunlight throughout the year. As Earth orbits the Sun, the hemisphere tilted towards the Sun experiences warmer temperatures and longer days resulting in summer, while the opposite hemisphere, tilted away, experiences cooler temperatures and shorter days leading to winter.
More Information
The concept of Earth's tilted axis is key in understanding seasonal changes. Without the tilt, the Earth would not experience such distinct seasons.
Tips
A common mistake is to think that the distance of Earth from the Sun causes seasons. Instead, it's the tilt of Earth's axis that is crucial.
Sources
- What Causes the Seasons? | NASA Space Place - spaceplace.nasa.gov
- Why Do the Seasons Change? | Wonderopolis - wonderopolis.org
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