On 21st June, the Sun
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 1 — does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle
On 21st June, the Northern Hemisphere experiences the Summer Solstice, when the North Pole is tilted at its maximum angle (23.5°) towards the Sun. This results in the Arctic Circle (66.5°N) experiencing 24 hours of continuous daylight, meaning the Sun does not set below the horizon. Conversely, the Antarctic Circle experiences polar night, the Equator has equal day and night, and the Sun is directly overhead at the Tropic of Cancer (not Capricorn).
📝 Short Notes: Solstices and Sun's Position
| Date | Event | Sun's Position | Arctic Circle | Antarctic Circle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21st June | Summer Solstice (NH) | Overhead at Tropic of Cancer (23.5°N) | 24 hours daylight (Sun does not set) | 24 hours darkness (Polar night) |
| 22nd December | Winter Solstice (NH) | Overhead at Tropic of Capricorn (23.5°S) | 24 hours darkness (Polar night) | 24 hours daylight (Sun does not set) |
| 21st March | Vernal Equinox | Overhead at Equator (0°) | 12 hours day/night | 12 hours day/night |
| 23rd September | Autumnal Equinox | Overhead at Equator (0°) | 12 hours day/night | 12 hours day/night |
- Arctic Circle: Located at 66.5°N latitude; experiences midnight sun during summer solstice
- Antarctic Circle: Located at 66.5°S latitude; experiences midnight sun during winter solstice (December)
- Tropic of Cancer: 23.5°N - Sun directly overhead on 21st June
- Tropic of Capricorn: 23.5°S - Sun directly overhead on 22nd December
- Earth's axial tilt: 23.5° from perpendicular to orbital plane causes seasonal variations
Question 4 of 5 Motions of the Earth
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