Question

Explain why earth experiences different seasons. In your answer you need to make sure to incorporate evidence about sun waves and earth's axis to support your claim using the RACES technique.

Answers

GPT-4o mini
**RACES Response:**

**R**estate the question: The Earth experiences different seasons due to the tilt of its axis and the varying angle of sunlight that different regions receive throughout the year.

**A**nswer the question: The primary reason for the changing seasons is the axial tilt of the Earth, which is approximately 23.5 degrees. This tilt affects how sunlight strikes the Earth's surface.

**C**ite evidence: When the Northern Hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun, it experiences summer because it receives more direct sunlight, leading to warmer temperatures. In contrast, during this time, the Southern Hemisphere is tilted away from the Sun, resulting in winter due to the lower angle of sunlight and shorter days. Conversely, when the Southern Hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun, it experiences summer while the Northern Hemisphere undergoes winter. This phenomenon is further supported by the idea of solar radiation; areas that receive direct sunlight receive more energy and heat compared to areas further from the direct light.

**E**xplain the evidence: The direct sunlight during summer months causes the ground, air, and bodies of water to warm up more significantly. Conversely, during winter months, the sunlight is spread over a larger area and at a lower angle, reducing the intensity of sunlight and leading to colder temperatures. This cycle repeats as the Earth orbits the Sun, creating distinct seasonal changes throughout the year.

**S**ummarize the response: In conclusion, the tilt of Earth’s axis is the fundamental reason for the seasonal variations we experience. Different angles of sunlight at various times of the year lead to shifts in temperature and climate, resulting in the distinct seasons of spring, summer, autumn, and winter.