In the northern hemisphere, the longest day of the year normally occurs in the:
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 2 — Second half of the month of June
The longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere is known as the summer solstice, which typically occurs on June 20th or 21st, falling in the second half of June. On this day, the sun is directly overhead at the Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N latitude), resulting in maximum daylight hours in the northern hemisphere. The exact date may vary slightly from year to year due to the calendar system and Earth's orbital mechanics.
📝 Short Notes: Solstices and Equinoxes
| Event | Date (Approx.) | Northern Hemisphere | Southern Hemisphere |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Solstice | June 20-21 | Longest day, shortest night | Shortest day, longest night |
| Winter Solstice | December 21-22 | Shortest day, longest night | Longest day, shortest night |
| Spring Equinox | March 20-21 | Day and night equal | Day and night equal |
| Autumn Equinox | September 22-23 | Day and night equal | Day and night equal |
- During solstices, the sun is directly overhead at either the Tropic of Cancer (June) or Tropic of Capricorn (December)
- During equinoxes, the sun is directly overhead at the Equator, resulting in equal day and night globally
- The tilt of Earth's axis (23.5°) is responsible for seasonal variations and solstices
- The term 'solstice' comes from Latin 'sol' (sun) and 'sistere' (to stand still), as the sun appears to pause at its northernmost or southernmost position
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