Question

Which factors cause Earth to experience seasons? Check all that apply.

the speed of Earth’s rotation
the tilt of Earth’s axis
the directness of the Sun’s rays
the distance from the Sun
the distance from the equator
the altitude of an area

Answer 1

- the tilt of Earth’s axis — Yes. The 23.5° tilt causes different hemispheres to lean toward or away from the Sun through the year, producing seasons.
- the directness of the Sun’s rays — Yes. Tilt changes the Sun’s angle and thus how concentrated (direct) the sunlight is and how much heating occurs.

Not causes:
- the speed of Earth’s rotation — No. Rotation sets day/night length but not the seasonal cycle.
- the distance from the Sun — No. Earth’s orbit is nearly circular; distance changes are small and are not the reason for seasons.
- the distance from the equator (latitude) — Not a cause. Latitude determines how strongly seasons are felt (their severity), but it doesn’t cause the seasonal cycle.
- the altitude of an area — No. Elevation affects local temperature and climate, not the timing of Earth's seasons.