Contrary to popular belief, the cycle of the seasons—that is, the periodic change of climate over the months—is due not to Earth’s distance from the Sun, but to its inclination: our planet’s axis of rotation leans about 23.5° in relation to the ecliptic (the path of Earth’s orbit). This inclination is directly responsible for the variation in sunshine hours, and thus the succession of seasons, throughout the year.

Contrary to popular belief, the cycle of the seasons—that is, the periodic change of climate over the months—is due not to Earth’s distance from the Sun, but to its inclination: our planet’s axis of rotation leans about 23.5° in relation to the ecliptic (the path of Earth’s orbit). This inclination is directly responsible for the variation in sunshine hours, and thus the succession of seasons, throughout the year. Stock Photo
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Image details

Contributor:

Universal Images Group North America LLC / Alamy Stock Photo

Image ID:

K22DNT

File size:

25.2 MB (437.4 KB Compressed download)

Releases:

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Dimensions:

3870 x 2273 px | 32.8 x 19.2 cm | 12.9 x 7.6 inches | 300dpi

Date taken:

20 December 2012

Photographer:

QAI Publishing