Earth's Orbit and Seasons

Flashcards about Earth's Orbital Motion, Seasons, and Related Concepts

Zodiac Constellations

The twelve constellations the Sun moves through during the year.

Ecliptic

The path that the Sun travels along throughout the year.

Earth's Motion Around the Sun

Seasonal changes to the night sky.

Ecliptic

Apparent annual path of the Sun across the celestial sphere.

Ecliptic

The plane of the Earth’s path around the Sun.

Summer Solstice

The northernmost point in the ecliptic path.

Winter Solstice

The southernmost point in the ecliptic path.

Vernal and Autumnal Equinoxes

Points where the ecliptic path crosses the celestial equator.

Cause of Seasons

A combination of sunlight angle and day length.

Primary Reason for Seasons

The 23.5° tilt of the Earth’s rotational axis.

Secondary Reason for Seasons

More hours of sunlight during summertime gives more heat; fewer hours in winter contribute to lower temperatures.

Summer Solstice

Longest day of the year; Sun highest in sky.

Winter Solstice

Shortest day of the year; Sun lowest in sky.

Vernal and Autumnal Equinoxes

12 hours of daylight EVERYWHERE on Earth!