7. How does the tilt in the Earth cause us to have seasons? I

The tilt of the Earth is a fundamental factor in the changing seasons. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how this tilt affects seasonal changes: 1. **Earth's Tilt**: The Earth is tilted on its axis at an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees. This tilt is the reason for the variation in sunlight that different parts of the Earth receive throughout the year. 2. **Sunlight Distribution**: As the Earth orbits around the Sun, the tilt causes different hemispheres to receive varying amounts of sunlight at different times of the year. When one hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun, it experiences more direct sunlight, leading to warmer temperatures and longer days—this is summer for that hemisphere. 3. **Seasons Change**: As the Earth continues its orbit, the tilt causes the opposite hemisphere to be tilted away from the Sun. This results in less direct sunlight, shorter days, and cooler temperatures—this is winter for that hemisphere. The transition periods between these extremes are known as spring and autumn (fall). 4. **Equinoxes and Solstices**: - **Equinoxes**: There are two equinoxes each year (around March 21 and September 23) when the tilt of the Earth is such that the Sun is directly above the equator. During these times, day and night are approximately equal in length. - **Solstices**: There are also two solstices (around June 21 and December 21). The June solstice marks the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere (when it is tilted toward the Sun), while the December solstice marks the start of winter (when it is tilted away). 5. **Impact on Climate**: The tilt not only affects temperature but also influences weather patterns and ecosystems. Different regions experience different climates based on their latitude and the angle of sunlight they receive throughout the year. In summary, the tilt of the Earth is crucial in creating the seasons by affecting how sunlight is distributed across the planet as it orbits the Sun.