The Sun's Path and Seasonal Changes

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the sun's path, seasonal changes, and important events such as solstices and equinoxes.

Winter Solstice

The shortest day of the year, occurring around December 21, when the sun is at its lowest altitude.

Summer Solstice

The longest day of the year, occurring around June 21, when the sun reaches its highest altitude.

Equinox

A point in time when day and night are of approximately equal length, occurring around March 21 and September 23.

Solar Noon

The time of day when the sun is at its highest point in the sky.

Zenith

The point in the sky directly above an observer, where the sun reaches its maximum altitude.

Daylength

The duration of time from sunrise to sunset.

Sun Path

The apparent path that the sun takes across the sky during a day.

Altitude

The angle of the sun in relation to the horizon, affecting the amount of daylight received.

Horizon

The line where the earth's surface and the sky appear to meet.

Solar Angle

The angle at which sunlight hits the earth, impacting temperature and daylight.