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Which phenomenon occurs twice a year when the Sun reaches its highest and lowest positions in the sky?
  • a)
    Solstice
  • b)
    Equinox
  • c)
    Eclipse
  • d)
    Aphelion and Perihelion
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
Most Upvoted Answer
Which phenomenon occurs twice a year when the Sun reaches its highest ...
Solstice occurs twice a year when the Sun reaches its highest (summer solstice) and lowest (winter solstice) positions in the sky relative to the Earth. These events mark the beginning of summer and winter, respectively.
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Which phenomenon occurs twice a year when the Sun reaches its highest ...
Understanding Solstices
The phenomenon that occurs twice a year when the Sun reaches its highest and lowest positions in the sky is known as the solstice.
What is a Solstice?
- The term "solstice" is derived from the Latin words "sol" (sun) and "sistere" (to stand still).
- It marks the points in the year when the Sun is at its most northern or southern position relative to the equator.
Types of Solstices
- Summer Solstice: Occurs around June 21 in the Northern Hemisphere when the Sun is at its highest point. This results in the longest day of the year.
- Winter Solstice: Occurs around December 21 in the Northern Hemisphere when the Sun is at its lowest point. This results in the shortest day of the year.
Significance of Solstices
- The solstices are significant in many cultures, often celebrated with festivals, rituals, and agricultural practices.
- They also mark the change of seasons, transitioning into summer or winter.
Comparison with Other Phenomena
- Equinox: Occurs twice a year (around March 21 and September 23) when day and night are approximately equal in duration. This is different from solstices, which involve extreme positions.
- Eclipse: A celestial event where one body moves into the shadow of another. This is not related to the Sun's position in the sky.
- Aphelion and Perihelion: These terms refer to the Earth’s distance from the Sun at its farthest (aphelion) and closest (perihelion) points, unrelated to the Sun's position in the sky.
In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'A' because solstices signify the Sun's highest and lowest positions, marking pivotal points in the Earth’s annual journey around the Sun.
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Which phenomenon occurs twice a year when the Sun reaches its highest and lowest positions in the sky?a)Solsticeb)Equinoxc)Eclipsed)Aphelion and PerihelionCorrect answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
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