Q.

The cycle of the seasons is caused due to

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a

Revolution

b

Rotation

c

Fraction

d

Gravitation

answer is B.

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Detailed Solution

The cycle of the seasons is caused due to the revolution of the Earth around the Sun, along with the tilt of the Earth's axis.

Explanation

  1. Revolution of the Earth

    The Earth revolves around the Sun in an elliptical orbit, completing one revolution in approximately 365.25 days (one year). This revolution causes changes in the position of the Earth relative to the Sun throughout the year.

  2. Axial Tilt (23.5°)

    The Earth's axis is tilted at an angle of 23.5° relative to its orbital plane. This tilt means different parts of the Earth receive varying amounts of sunlight during different times of the year.

  3. Variation in Sunlight

    The combination of revolution and axial tilt results in different hemispheres receiving more or less sunlight, causing the cycle of the seasons. For example:

    • During June, the Northern Hemisphere tilts toward the Sun, experiencing summer, while the Southern Hemisphere tilts away, experiencing winter.
    • In December, the reverse happens.
  4. Day Length and Solar Intensity

    Revolution also affects the length of days and the intensity of sunlight, both of which contribute to seasonal changes.

Key Concepts

FactorEffect on Seasons
Revolution of the EarthCauses the Earth's position relative to the Sun to change over the year.
Axial TiltDetermines which hemisphere is tilted toward or away from the Sun at different times.
Variation in SunlightResults in temperature changes and the cycle of seasons.

Summary of Seasons

SeasonHemisphereSun’s PositionCharacteristics
SummerNorthernTilted toward the SunLonger days, more direct sunlight, warmer temps
WinterNorthernTilted away from the SunShorter days, less sunlight, colder temps
Spring/AutumnBothNeither hemisphere tiltedModerate temperatures, equal day and night

Conclusion

The cycle of the seasons is caused due to the Earth's revolution around the Sun and its axial tilt. Without these factors, the planet would not experience seasonal variations, and the climate would remain relatively uniform throughout the year.

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