The primary reason sunlight hits different latitudes on Earth at different angles is due to the Earth still on its axis. This axial tilt is approximately 23.5 degrees relative to its orbit around the Sun. Because of this tilt, as the Earth orbits the Sun, different latitudes receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year, leading to the changing seasons.
Here's a brief explanation of why the other options are less relevant:
- The rate of burning fuel: This does not affect the angle at which sunlight reaches different latitudes.
- The Earth speed of rotation: While the Earth's rotation does influence the day-night cycle, it does not change the angle at which sunlight strikes the Earth.
- The sun distance from the Earth: Although the distance can affect the intensity of sunlight, it does not significantly change the angle of sunlight at different latitudes.
Thus, the axial tilt of the Earth is the key factor in determining the angles at which sunlight strikes different latitudes.