Multiple Choice
Which method would be the most accurate way to find out the direction of prevailing winds?
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48. Ecology
Earth's Climate Patterns
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Which of these factors is the most important reason why the Earth has seasons?
A
The gravitational pull of the Moon
B
The tilt of Earth's axis relative to its orbital plane
C
The rotation of Earth on its axis
D
The varying distance between Earth and the Sun during the year
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of Earth's seasons: Seasons are caused by the way Earth is positioned relative to the Sun during its orbit, not by the distance between Earth and the Sun.
Recognize the role of Earth's axial tilt: Earth's axis is tilted at an angle of approximately 23.5° relative to its orbital plane. This tilt is the primary factor responsible for the changing seasons.
Analyze how the tilt affects sunlight distribution: When one hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun, it experiences more direct sunlight and longer days, leading to summer. Conversely, the hemisphere tilted away from the Sun receives less direct sunlight and shorter days, resulting in winter.
Eliminate incorrect options: The gravitational pull of the Moon influences tides, not seasons. Earth's rotation on its axis causes day and night, not seasonal changes. The varying distance between Earth and the Sun during the year is minimal and does not significantly affect seasons.
Conclude that the tilt of Earth's axis relative to its orbital plane is the most important reason why Earth has seasons.
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