Earth in Space: Seasons and Shadows Review Guide Vocabulary

Revolution

It’s the time of year when Earth’s tilt causes seasonal changes in weather and climate

Equator

An imaginary line circling Earth halfway between the North and South Poles.

Middle Latitudes

The regions of Earth between the tropics and the polar circles

North and South Poles

Are the points on Earth’s surface furthest north and south, repectively.

Southern Hemisphere

Is the half of the Earth south of the equator

Northern Hemisphere

Is the half of the north of the equator

Indirect light

Is sunlight that hits a surface at a 30 degree angle, creating softer, diffused illumination.

Direct Light

Sunlight that strikes a surface straight down or perpendicularly, resulting in bright and intense illumination.

Vernal Equinox

When day and night are about equal, usually around March 20 or 21, marking the start of spring.

Autumnal Equinox

Is around September 22 or 23, marking the start of autumn with equal day and night lengths.

Winter solstice

Is the shortest day of the year typically around December 21 or 22.

Summer solstice

Is the longest day of the year usually around June 20 or 21.

Horizon

Refers to the line where the Earth’s surface and the sky appear to meet. Where you can see the sunrise and sunset.

Summer Shadow

Are shorter than winter shadows because of the suns angle.

Shadow

Created when an object blocks light.