Maharashtra Board Class 7 Geography Chapter 8 How Seasons Occur Part 2 Solutions

Complete The Statements Using Correct Options:

Question 1. The apparent movement of the sun means that _______.
(a) the sun revolves around the earth in a year.
(b) it appears that the sun moves to the north or south in a year.
(c) the earth keeps on changing its position.
Answer: (b) it appears that the sun moves to the north or south in a year.
In simple words: The apparent movement of the sun refers to how it seems to shift its position north or south over the year, due to Earth's tilt and orbit, not the sun physically moving around Earth.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the difference between real and apparent motion of celestial bodies is crucial for higher scores.

Question 2. If the axis of the earth were not tilted _______ .
(a) the earth would not have rotated around, itself.
(b) the earth would have revolved around the sun with greater velocity.
(c) different parallels on the earth would have experienced the same climate throughout the year.
Answer: (c) different parallels on the earth would have experienced the same climate throughout the year.
In simple words: Without Earth's axial tilt, all latitudes would receive the same amount of sunlight throughout the year, leading to uniform climates along each parallel.

🎯 Exam Tip: Earth's axial tilt is a key factor in the occurrence of seasons and climatic variations across latitudes, a frequently tested concept.

Question 3. 21sl June and 22nd December are solstice days, that is _______.
(a) the sun starts its southward journey from Tropic of Cancer on 21st June and Northward journey from Tropic of Capricon on 22nd December.
(b) the Dakshinayan of the sun takes place between 21st June and 22nd December.
(c) the Uttarayan of the earth takes place between 22nd December and 21st June.
Answer: (a) the sun starts its southward journey from Tropic of Cancer on 21st June and Northward journey from Tropic of Capricon on 22nd December.
In simple words: Solstice days mark the points when the sun's apparent path reverses direction, either moving south from the Tropic of Cancer (summer solstice) or north from the Tropic of Capricorn (winter solstice).

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorize the dates and associated sun movements for solstices and equinoxes, as these are fundamental to understanding seasons.

Question 4. The revolution of the earth around the Sun and the tilt of the axis of the earth together are responsible for the _______.
(a) summer, rainy season, retreat of monsoon, winter.
(b) summer, winter and spring.
(c) summer and winter.
Answer: (c) summer and winter.
In simple words: Earth's orbit around the sun combined with its tilted axis primarily causes the distinct seasons of summer and winter in different hemispheres.

🎯 Exam Tip: This question highlights the two main astronomical factors driving seasonal changes: revolution and axial tilt. Ensure you understand their combined effect.

Answer The Following Questions:

Question 1. What leads to the occurrence of seasons?
Answer:
(i) Seasons occur due to the revolution of the earth.
(ii) Seasons also occur due to the tilt of the earth's axis of rotation.
In simple words: Seasons happen because the Earth travels around the sun (revolution) and its axis is tilted, causing different parts of the world to get more direct sunlight at different times of the year.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always mention both the Earth's revolution and its axial tilt when explaining the cause of seasons to get full marks.

Question 2. What is the duration of the day on equinox?
Answer:
(i) The circle of illumination divides all the parallels from the north pole to the south pole equally.
(ii) Everywhere on the earth, the night time and day time are of equal duration. This condition is called equinox.
(iii) Thus, the duration of the day will be twelve hours on equinox.
In simple words: On an equinox, the Earth's axis is neither tilted towards nor away from the sun, making day and night exactly 12 hours long everywhere on the planet.

🎯 Exam Tip: Equinoxes signify equal day and night across the globe, a key concept often tested in relation to Earth's axial position.

Question 3. Why is the effect of the seasons not experienced in the equatorial region?
Answer:
(i) Seasons have been decided on the basis of the duration of sunlight, equinoxes & solstices
(i) The equatorial region receives perpendicular sunray almost throughout the year.
(ii) Hence the climate of that region does not change at all in the year.
(iii) Hence the effect of the seasons is not experienced in the equatorial region.
In simple words: The equatorial region doesn't experience distinct seasons because it receives direct, perpendicular sunrays almost consistently throughout the year, leading to a largely uniform climate.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the consistent, direct angle of sunlight at the equator as the primary reason for its lack of pronounced seasonal changes.

Question 4. Why is the sun visible for more than 24 hours during Dakshinayan in the region between the Antarctic Circle and the South Pole?
Answer:
(i) Sunrays are never perpendicular on any of the parallels between Tropic of Cancer & the North pole or between Tropic of Capricorn & the South pole.
(ii) In the period from 23rd September to 21st March (Dakshinayan) the region between Antarctic circle and the south faces the sun. The whole of Antarctic Circle falls within the zone of illumination.
(iii) So the sun is visible in the sky for more than 24 hours.
In simple words: During Dakshinayan (southern summer), the South Pole region is continuously tilted towards the sun, keeping it within the illuminated zone for over 24 hours, meaning the sun doesn't set for long periods.

🎯 Exam Tip: Relate the tilt of Earth's axis during specific periods (Dakshinayan for Southern Hemisphere) to the continuous illumination of polar regions.

Question 5. Why are penguins not found at the North Pole?
Answer:
(i) The living world on the earth is affected by the cycle of seasons.
(ii) Penguins are native to south pole. Penguins have adapted to the natural conditions prevailing in the Antarctic regions of the south pole.
(iii) Besides predators like polar bears roam within the Arctic Circle. Hence penguins are found at the South pole & not at the North pole.
In simple words: Penguins are native to the Southern Hemisphere and have evolved to thrive in the Antarctic environment, whereas the North Pole's Arctic region has different conditions and predators like polar bears.

🎯 Exam Tip: This question assesses understanding of adaptation and geographical distribution of species, linking it to climate and ecological niches.

Rewrite The Following Statements After Correcting Them:

Question 1. The earth's velocity varies according to the period of revolution.
Answer:
The earth's velocity varies due to the rotation of the earth.
In simple words: Earth's rotational speed, not its orbital period, causes changes in velocity, affecting the length of day and night.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish clearly between Earth's rotation (on its axis) and revolution (around the sun) as they affect different phenomena.

Question 2. If we observe from the northern hemisphere we see the apparent movement of the sun.
Answer:
We see the apparent movement of the sun from both the northern & southern hemispheres.
In simple words: The apparent movement of the sun, where it seems to shift north and south over the year, is observable from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, not just one.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that apparent movements are observed globally, though their specifics might differ depending on the observer's location.

Question 3. The dates of equinox change every year.
Answer:
The dates of equinox does not change every year. They vary by a day or so.
In simple words: The dates of the equinoxes are generally fixed (around March 20th and September 22nd) but can shift by a day due to the Earth's elliptical orbit and leap years.

🎯 Exam Tip: While equinox dates are largely constant, acknowledging minor yearly variations (due to leap years) shows a more complete understanding.

Question 4. North Canada experiences summer from September to March.
Answer:
North Canada experience winter from September to March.
In simple words: North Canada, being in the Northern Hemisphere, experiences its winter season from September to March, coinciding with less direct sunlight.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the seasonal patterns based on hemispheres; when one hemisphere has summer, the other generally has winter.

Question 5. When it is summer in South Africa, Australia has winter.
Answer:
When it is summer in South Africa, Australia has summer.
In simple words: Both South Africa and Australia are in the Southern Hemisphere, so they experience the same seasons simultaneously; thus, when it's summer in one, it's also summer in the other.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that locations within the same hemisphere generally share the same seasonal patterns due to their shared tilt towards or away from the sun.

Question 6. Duration of daytime is less on the vernal and autumnal equinoxes.
Answer:
On the vernal (spring) equinox and autumnal equinox, day and night time are of the same duration.
In simple words: During both vernal (spring) and autumnal (fall) equinoxes, the Earth's orientation means that day and night are of equal length, not that daytime is shorter.

🎯 Exam Tip: The defining characteristic of an equinox is the equal duration of day and night, a fundamental concept in geography.

Spot The Error In The Diagram Given Below:

ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह चित्र पृथ्वी की सूर्य के चारों ओर परिक्रमा और अक्षीय झुकाव के कारण होने वाले विभिन्न ऋतुओं, विषुवों (equinoxes) और संक्रांति (solstices) की स्थितियों को दर्शाता है। इसमें 22 दिसंबर को उत्तरी ध्रुव पर गर्मी और 21 जून को शीतकालीन संक्रांति के रूप में गलत लेबलिंग की गई है, जो मौसमी चक्र को समझने के लिए महत्वपूर्ण त्रुटि है।
Answer:
Spring Equinox – 21st March
Summer Solstice - 21st June
Winter Solstice – 22nd December
The error in the diagram is that the labels for Summer Solstice and Winter Solstice positions for the Northern Hemisphere are interchanged. On 22nd December, the Northern Hemisphere should be experiencing Winter Solstice, not Summer Solstice. Similarly, on 21st June, it should be Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere.
In simple words: The diagram incorrectly labels the seasons for the Northern Hemisphere; for example, it shows Summer Solstice in December when it should be Winter Solstice for the Northern Hemisphere.

🎯 Exam Tip: Carefully cross-reference the dates with the corresponding solstices and equinoxes for each hemisphere to identify errors in such diagrams.

Draw A Diagram Showing The Cycle Of Seasons In The Southern Hemisphere.

ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह चित्र दक्षिणी गोलार्ध में ऋतुओं के चक्र को दर्शाता है। यह दिखाता है कि जब उत्तरी गोलार्ध में वसंत होता है, तो दक्षिणी गोलार्ध में शरद ऋतु होती है; जब उत्तरी गोलार्ध में सर्दी होती है, तो दक्षिणी गोलार्ध में गर्मी होती है; और इसी तरह, उत्तरी और दक्षिणी गोलार्ध में ऋतुएँ विपरीत होती हैं।
Answer: A diagram showing the cycle of seasons in the Southern Hemisphere would essentially mirror the Northern Hemisphere's cycle, but with reversed seasons for the given dates. For example, when it's summer in the Northern Hemisphere (around June), it's winter in the Southern Hemisphere, and vice-versa. The equinoxes (March and September) would mark spring and autumn, respectively, for the Southern Hemisphere.
In simple words: A diagram for the Southern Hemisphere's seasons would show that when the Northern Hemisphere has summer, the Southern Hemisphere has winter, and when the Northern Hemisphere has spring, the Southern Hemisphere has autumn, always opposite.

🎯 Exam Tip: When drawing or interpreting seasonal diagrams for a specific hemisphere, always remember that seasons are opposite in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Question 1. Using the internet sites or a calendar, find and note the duration of the day for specific dates between 22nd March and 23rd September. Calculate the duration of the nights too. Using this information draw a compound bar graph.
Answer: [This is an activity-based question and requires data collection and graph plotting.]
In simple words: For this task, students need to research day lengths between March 22nd and September 23rd, calculate night lengths, and then create a bar graph showing both durations.

🎯 Exam Tip: For practical tasks like this, emphasize clear data collection, accurate calculations, and precise graph labeling for clarity.

Question 2. Draw a diagram of aphelion and perihelion positions of the earth on the computer.
Answer: [This is an activity-based question and requires drawing a diagram.]
In simple words: Students are asked to create a computer diagram illustrating Earth's orbit, specifically showing its farthest point from the sun (aphelion) and closest point (perihelion).

🎯 Exam Tip: When illustrating astronomical concepts, ensure accurate representation of orbits and relative distances, even in digital drawings.

Activity:

Using the internet, collect pictorial information of any four migratory birds/animals.
Answer: [This is an activity-based question and requires collecting pictorial information.]
In simple words: This activity involves using the internet to find pictures and information about four different species of birds or animals that migrate.

🎯 Exam Tip: For research-based activities, focus on reliable sources, clear presentation of findings, and concise summaries of migratory patterns.

Can You Tell:

Figure shows the position of the earth with its tilted axis on 21st June and 22nd December. It also shows its illuminated and dark positions. Observe the figure and answer the following.

ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह चित्र पृथ्वी के अक्षीय झुकाव के साथ 21 जून और 22 दिसंबर को सूर्य के चारों ओर उसकी स्थिति को दर्शाता है। इसमें पृथ्वी के प्रकाशित (दिन) और अंधेरे (रात) भागों को दिखाया गया है, जिससे यह समझने में मदद मिलती है कि इन तिथियों पर उत्तरी और दक्षिणी गोलार्धों को कितनी धूप मिलती है और विषुव तथा संक्रांति कैसे होते हैं।

Question 1. In fig 'A which pole is receiving sunlight?
Answer:
North Pole is receiving sunlight in Fig 'A'
In simple words: In Figure 'A', which represents the Earth's position around June 21st, the North Pole is tilted towards the sun and therefore receives sunlight.

🎯 Exam Tip: Observe the tilt of the Earth's axis relative to the sun to determine which pole is receiving direct sunlight.

Question 2. In fig 'B' which pole is not receiving sunlight?
Answer:
North Pole is not receiving sunlight in Fig. 'B'
In simple words: In Figure 'B', which represents the Earth's position around December 22nd, the North Pole is tilted away from the sun and is therefore in darkness, not receiving sunlight.

🎯 Exam Tip: When the Southern Hemisphere is tilted towards the sun, the Northern Hemisphere, particularly its pole, is tilted away, resulting in less or no sunlight.

Question 3. Which hemisphere has the longest daytime on 21st June?
Answer:
Northern hemisphere has the longest daytime on 21st June.
In simple words: On June 21st, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted most directly towards the sun, resulting in its longest period of daylight, known as the Summer Solstice.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that June 21st marks the Summer Solstice for the Northern Hemisphere, characterized by the longest day.

Question 4. Which hemisphere will have the longest night on 22nd December?
Answer:
Northern hemisphere will have the largest night in 22nd December.
In simple words: On December 22nd, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest from the sun, leading to its longest night, known as the Winter Solstice.

🎯 Exam Tip: December 22nd is the Winter Solstice for the Northern Hemisphere, bringing the year's longest night and shortest day.

Question 5. On which date will the Tropic of Cancer receive perpendicular sunrays?
Answer:
The Tropic of Cancer will receive perpendicular sunrays on 21st June.
In simple words: The Tropic of Cancer receives direct, perpendicular sunrays on June 21st, which is the Summer Solstice for the Northern Hemisphere.

🎯 Exam Tip: The date when the Tropic of Cancer receives perpendicular sunrays directly correlates with the Northern Hemisphere's Summer Solstice.

Question 6. Considering the position of the north pole, which season will prevail in the northern hemisphere from 22nd March to 23rd September?
Answer:
Summer season will prevail in the northern hemisphere from 22nd March to 23rd September.
In simple words: From late March to late September, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted towards the sun, causing it to experience the summer season.

🎯 Exam Tip: This period (March to September) is when the Northern Hemisphere receives more direct sunlight due to Earth's tilt, leading to summer.

Question 7. The cricket matches in Australia are generally in summer, when does Australia have summer?
Answer:
Summer season prevails in Australia from 23rd September to 21st March.
In simple words: Australia, being in the Southern Hemisphere, experiences its summer season from late September to late March.

🎯 Exam Tip: Relate the seasonal calendar to specific hemispheres; Australia's summer is during the Northern Hemisphere's winter due to Earth's tilt.

Question 8. In which period is the 'midnight sun' observable in Norway? Which season will there be at that time?
Answer:
Midnight sun is observable in Norway from 21st March to 23rd September. It will be summer in Norway that time.
In simple words: The 'midnight sun' is seen in Norway during its summer, specifically from late March to late September, when the region is continuously illuminated by the sun due to Earth's axial tilt.

🎯 Exam Tip: The phenomenon of 'midnight sun' occurs in polar regions during their respective summer seasons when tilted towards the sun.

Question 9. At what time will the midnight sun be visible at the "Bharati Research Station" of India at Antarctica? What will be the season there at that time?
Answer:
The midnight sun will be visible at Bharati Research Station of India at Antarctica from 23rd September to 21st March. It will be summer season there.
In simple words: The 'midnight sun' is visible at India's Bharati Research Station in Antarctica during the Antarctic summer, which runs from late September to late March.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that the 'midnight sun' occurs during summer in both polar regions, but the timing differs due to their opposite seasonal cycles.

Use Your Brain Power:

Question 1. The summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir is Srinagar while the winter capital is Jammu. What could be the reason?
Answer:
(i) Jammu is located in the southern part of the state of Jammu & Kashmir whereas Srinagar is located to its north.
(ii) Also Jammu is located at an altitude of 350m whereas Srinagar is located at an altitude of approximately 1500m.
(iii) So Jammu has higher temperature in summer as compared to Srinagar. As Srinagar has pleasant climate in summer, it acts as summer capital of the state.
(iv) As winters are not very cold in Jammu & it is early accessible, it acts as a winter capital of the state.
In simple words: Srinagar is cooler in summer due to its higher altitude and northern location, making it ideal for the summer capital, while Jammu, being lower and more accessible in winter, serves as the winter capital.

🎯 Exam Tip: This question highlights how geographical factors like altitude and latitude influence local climate and administrative decisions.

Question 2. While India & England are located in the same hemisphere why are the cricket matches in these two countries arranged in different months?
Answer:
(i) As India is a tropical country summers temperature are very high. England on the other hand falls in the temperate zone which has mild summers. Hence, England is suitable for cricket matches in summer.
(ii) As England lies in the temperate zone it her very cold winters. India on the other hand has mild winters as it is a tropical country. Thus India is suitable for cricket matches in winters. Hence, although India & England are located in the same hemisphere, due to latitudinal differences, the cricket matches in these two countries are arranged in different months.
In simple words: India and England, despite being in the Northern Hemisphere, have different cricket seasons because India's tropical climate makes its summers too hot for cricket, while England's temperate climate makes its summers ideal and winters too cold.

🎯 Exam Tip: This illustrates how distinct climatic zones within the same hemisphere lead to varied seasonal suitability for activities, due to factors like tropical vs. temperate latitudes.

Question 3. On 21st March and 23rd September, daytime and night time are same all over the earth. But why do some parts experience summer and some winter on the these days?
Answer:
(i) If the earth's axis were not tilted, the same climatic conditions would have prevailed on each of the different parallels throughout the year.
(ii) The seasons would not have occurred. It is due to the tilt of the earth's axis that some parts of the earth experience summer and some winter on these days.
In simple words: While day and night are equal on equinoxes, the Earth's axial tilt still causes different regions to experience varying degrees of seasonal impact from the preceding or upcoming seasons, leading to lingering summer or winter conditions.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clarify that equinoxes only guarantee equal day/night, but the *overall* seasonal feeling is influenced by the sun's position relative to the hemisphere *before* and *after* the equinox, due to the tilt.

Question 4. Mention any two countries in the world where one needs woollen clothing in the month of May. Also mention their latitudinal positions.
Answer:
South Africa is on 23°S latitude.
Iceland is on 65°N latitude.
In simple words: In May, one would need woollen clothing in Iceland (around 65°N latitude) because it's still spring/early summer with cool temperatures, and in South Africa (around 23°S latitude) because it's heading into winter.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that May is late spring/early summer in the Northern Hemisphere but late autumn/early winter in the Southern Hemisphere, influencing clothing needs.

Question 5. On equinox days, the two poles experience either sunrise or sunset. On which pole will it be sunrise on 21st March?
Answer:
Sunrise will be experienced on the North pole.
In simple words: On March 21st, the vernal equinox, the sun crosses the celestial equator moving north, causing sunrise at the North Pole.

🎯 Exam Tip: The March equinox signifies the beginning of continuous daylight at the North Pole and continuous darkness at the South Pole.

Think About It:

Question 1. In which direction will the location of sunrise and sunset appear to move after 22nd of December?
Answer:
On 22nd December the sun reaches the southernmost position as seen from the earth. The sun seems to stand still at the Tropic of Capricon and then reverses its direction. The sun appears to move northwards after 22nd December.
In simple words: After December 22nd, the sun's apparent path reverses, moving northwards, meaning the sunrise and sunset points on the horizon will also appear to shift towards the north.

🎯 Exam Tip: December 22nd marks the Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, after which the apparent movement of the sun begins its journey back north (Uttarayan).

Observe Fig Of Textbook Page 47 Carefully & Answer:

ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह चित्र पृथ्वी की सूर्य के चारों ओर की वार्षिक परिक्रमा को दर्शाता है, जिसमें 21 मार्च (वसंत विषुव), 21 जून (ग्रीष्म संक्रांति), 23 सितंबर (शरद विषुव), और 22 दिसंबर (शीतकालीन संक्रांति) की प्रमुख स्थितियाँ शामिल हैं। यह पृथ्वी के अक्षीय झुकाव और विभिन्न ऋतुओं के आगमन को स्पष्ट करता है, साथ ही यह भी दिखाता है कि सूर्य से पृथ्वी की दूरी पूरे वर्ष कैसे बदलती है।

Question 2. positioned relative to the sun on the dates given in the figure?
Answer:
(i) The northern hemisphere is tilted towards the sun in the period between 21st March is 23rd September. Hence, northern hemisphere experiences summer season.
(ii) It is tilted away from the sun in the period between 23rd September to 21st March. Hence, northern hemisphere experiences winter season.
In simple words: From March to September, the Northern Hemisphere tilts towards the sun, experiencing summer, while from September to March, it tilts away, leading to winter.

🎯 Exam Tip: Correlate Earth's tilt direction with the dates to correctly identify the season experienced by each hemisphere.

Question 3. Which season will you experience in the northern hemisphere around 22nd December?
Answer:
We will experience Winter season in the northern hemisphere around 22nd December.
In simple words: Around December 22nd, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the sun, resulting in the experience of winter.

🎯 Exam Tip: December 22nd is the Winter Solstice for the Northern Hemisphere, marking the peak of its winter season.

Question 4. What would be the season in the northern hemisphere around 21st June?
Answer:
It will be Summer season in the northern hemisphere around 21st June.
In simple words: Around June 21st, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted towards the sun, leading to the experience of summer.

🎯 Exam Tip: June 21st is the Summer Solstice for the Northern Hemisphere, signifying the start or peak of its summer.

Question 5. If it is winter in the northern hemisphere which season will it be in opposite hemisphere?
Answer:
If it is winter in the northern hemisphere, the southern hemisphere will experience summer season.
In simple words: When the Northern Hemisphere is experiencing winter, the Southern Hemisphere is simultaneously experiencing summer, because the Earth's tilt causes opposite seasonal effects in the two hemispheres.

🎯 Exam Tip: A core concept of seasons is that they are always opposite in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Question 6. At any given point of time why are the season in the northern and southern hemisphere different?
Answer:
(i) Regardless of the time of the year, the northern and southern hemisphere experience opposite seasons.
(ii) In the period from 21st March to 23rd September the northern hemisphere is exposed to more direct sunlight because this hemisphere faces the sun.
(iii) In the period from 23rd September to 21st March the southern hemisphere is exposed to more direct sunlight.
(iv) It is the tilt of the Earth that causes the difference in the seasons.
In simple words: Seasons are different in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres because Earth's axial tilt means that when one hemisphere leans towards the sun (summer), the other leans away (winter), leading to opposite solar exposure.

🎯 Exam Tip: The Earth's constant axial tilt, combined with its revolution, is the fundamental reason for opposite seasons in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Question 7. What effects do the seasons have on the biodiversity in India? Write briefly about it:
Answer:
(i) The living world on the earth is affected by the cycle of seasons.
(ii) Change in seasons cause immense biodiversity loss, affecting both individual species and their ecosystem that support economic growth and human well being.
(iii) Greater frequency and severity of heat waves and extreme weather is a threat to the survival of mankind and animals too.
(iv) Floral and animal activity variation depends on seasonal temperature variation with different species flowering at specific times before or after monsoon seasons.
(v) Any change in rainfall pattern poses a threat to agriculture.
In simple words: Seasons significantly impact India's biodiversity by influencing plant growth, animal migrations, and breeding cycles, while extreme weather shifts due to climate change threaten species survival and agriculture.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing biodiversity, highlight how seasonal variations affect species' life cycles, ecosystems, and human activities like agriculture.

Give It A Try:

Question 1. Regarding daytime & the cycle of season, what conditions would have prevailed at the following place, if the earth's axis were not tilled? (Canada, Tasmania, Nigeria, West Indies, Peru, Borneo)
Answer:
- Effect on day & night time: If the earth's axis were not titled the duration of day time & night time would have been equal throughout the year.
- Effect on seasons: There would be no seasonal change on the earth.
- Canada and Tasmania would experience winter throughout the year as they are located near the poles.
- West Indies, Peru, Nigeria, Borneo would experience summer throughout the year as they are located near the equator.
In simple words: If Earth's axis wasn't tilted, day and night would be 12 hours everywhere, there would be no distinct seasons, polar regions like Canada and Tasmania would have perpetual winter, and equatorial regions like Nigeria and Peru would have perpetual summer.

🎯 Exam Tip: This thought experiment is crucial for understanding the direct consequence of axial tilt on day length, temperature, and seasonal variations worldwide.

Can You Tell:

Discuss the activity you have been carrying out since June (Refer ch. 1) make use of the observation tables for the months of June, September & December.
Answer: [This is an activity-based question that requires discussion based on prior observations.]
In simple words: This task requires students to review their recorded observations from June, September, and December (from Chapter 1) to discuss how day length and other seasonal factors change throughout the year.

🎯 Exam Tip: For discussion-based questions, structure your answer by referencing specific data points and linking them to geographical principles, like seasonal changes.

Question 1. In which month the duration of the day was around 12 hours?
Answer:
The duration of the day was around 12 hours in the month of September.
In simple words: The day duration is approximately 12 hours in September, which aligns with the autumnal equinox when day and night lengths are roughly equal.

🎯 Exam Tip: Equinox months (March and September) are key markers for approximately equal day and night durations globally.

Question 2. What could be the reason behind it?
Answer:
The duration of day is 12 hours in the month of September because both the hemispheres of the earth are at equal distance from the sun & the equator receives perpendicular rays of the sun.
In simple words: Day length is 12 hours in September because it's an equinox, meaning neither hemisphere is tilted towards or away from the sun, and the equator receives direct perpendicular rays, balancing day and night globally.

🎯 Exam Tip: The equal illumination of both hemispheres and perpendicular sunrays at the equator are the primary reasons for 12-hour days during equinoxes.

Question 3. Bring out the differences between the duration of daytime in the months of June, September & December.
Answer:
The duration of day is around 13 hours in the month of June. It decreases to around 12 hours in the month of September. It is around 11 hours in the month of December.
In simple words: Daytime is longest in June (around 13 hours), shortens to about 12 hours in September (equinox), and becomes shortest in December (around 11 hours), reflecting the seasonal changes in sunlight duration.

🎯 Exam Tip: This question highlights the impact of Earth's revolution and tilt on day length, with June marking summer (longest day), September equinox (equal day), and December winter (shortest day) in the Northern Hemisphere.

Question 4. What could be the reason for the change in the shadow of the stick?
Answer:
There is a change in the shadow of the stick because there is a change in position of the sunrise & sunset.
In simple words: The shadow of a stick changes throughout the day and across seasons because the sun's position in the sky, as well as the points of sunrise and sunset, continuously shift.

🎯 Exam Tip: The length and direction of shadows are directly related to the sun's altitude and azimuth, which vary with time of day and season.

Question 5. What did you observe about the position of the sun at the horizon at the time of sunrise & sunset?
Answer:
(i) After 21st June the position of the sun at the horizon at the time of sunrise & sunset shifted southwards.
(ii) After 22nd December the position of the sun at the horizon at the time of sunrise & sunset shifted north wards.
In simple words: After June 21st, the sun rises and sets further south on the horizon, moving northwards again after December 22nd, reflecting its apparent annual movement between the Tropics.

🎯 Exam Tip: This observation demonstrates the apparent migration of the sun, causing changes in the duration of daylight and the angle of sunlight throughout the year.

Question 6. Which of the following factors could be related with the change in the position of the shadow of the stick & the difference in the duration of daytime?
(i) Rotation of the earth
(ii) Distance between the earth & the sun
(iii) Revolution of the earth.
(iv) The axis of the earth.
Answer:
(i) Revolution of the earth
(ii) The axis of the earth.
In simple words: The changing shadow positions and varying daytime durations are primarily caused by the Earth's revolution around the sun and the constant tilt of its axis.

🎯 Exam Tip: While rotation causes daily shadow changes, the annual changes in shadow and day length are fundamentally due to Earth's revolution and axial tilt.

Fill In The Blanks:

Question 1. The position of the sun at sunrise, appears to change on the _______ everyday.
Answer:
horizon
In simple words: The apparent position of the sun at sunrise changes daily on the horizon, shifting throughout the year.

🎯 Exam Tip: This reflects the sun's apparent annual movement and the changing tilt of Earth relative to the sun.

Question 2. _______ occurs only with reference to the northern and the southern hemispheres.
Answer:
Seasons
In simple words: Seasons are distinct climatic periods that occur specifically in relation to the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, as they tilt towards or away from the sun.

🎯 Exam Tip: The concept of distinct seasons is hemisphere-dependent, largely absent at the equator.

Question 3. The path of the revolution of the earth around the sun is _______.
Answer:
elliptical
In simple words: The Earth travels around the sun in an elliptical, or oval-shaped, path, not a perfect circle.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the elliptical nature of Earth's orbit is key to grasping perihelion and aphelion, though it doesn't primarily cause seasons.

Question 4. As the earth revolves around the sun, its perpendicular rays fall on the _______ twice a year.
Answer:
equator
In simple words: The sun's rays hit the equator directly, at a perpendicular angle, twice annually during the equinoxes.

🎯 Exam Tip: Perpendicular sunrays at the equator define the equinoxes, leading to equal day and night across the globe.

Question 5. In the northern hemisphere _______ prevails from 21st March to 21st June, while _______ prevails from 23rd September to 22nd December.
Answer:
spring, autumn
In simple words: In the Northern Hemisphere, spring occurs from March to June, and autumn occurs from September to December.

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorize the approximate date ranges for each season in the Northern Hemisphere to correctly identify seasonal transitions.

Question 6. _______ is the longest day and has the shortest night in the northern hemisphere.
Answer:
21st June
In simple words: June 21st marks the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing the longest day and shortest night of the year.

🎯 Exam Tip: June 21st (Summer Solstice) is the key date for the longest day in the Northern Hemisphere.

Question 7. _______ marks the longest day and the shortest night in the southern hemisphere.
Answer:
22nd December
In simple words: December 22nd signifies the Summer Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere, which has its longest day and shortest night then.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that December 22nd (Summer Solstice) is when the Southern Hemisphere experiences its longest day and shortest night.

Question 8. On the _______ the duration of day and night is the same throughout the year.
Answer: equator
In simple words: The equator experiences equal day and night duration throughout the year because it is always at an equal distance from the sun's illumination.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that equinoxes result in equal day and night worldwide, but the equator experiences this consistently.

Question 9. The occurrence of seasons one after the other leads to the _______.
Answer: cycle of seasons
In simple words: The regular sequence of different seasons creates what is known as the cycle of seasons.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the cyclic nature of seasons is key to grasping Earth's annual movement around the Sun.

Question 10. Agricultural seasons also depend on the local _______ conditions.
Answer: climatic
In simple words: Local weather patterns, or climatic conditions, directly influence when and what crops can be grown, defining agricultural seasons.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect local climate factors like rainfall and temperature to agricultural practices and seasonal farming.

Question 11. Continuous, occurrence of rain in a specific period gives rise to additional _______ besides summer and winter.
Answer: season
In simple words: Regular rainfall during a distinct period forms a separate 'rainy season' in addition to summer and winter.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize that some regions experience a distinct rainy season, which is a major climate characteristic.

Question 12. On _______ and _______ day time and night time are same all over the earth.
Answer: 21st March, 23rd September
In simple words: On March 21st and September 23rd, the Earth experiences equinoxes, meaning day and night are of equal length globally.

🎯 Exam Tip: These two dates are crucial for understanding the concept of equinox and the Earth's position relative to the Sun.

Question 13. The period in which the position of the rising sun keeps moving towards the south is called _______.
Answer: Dakshinayan
In simple words: Dakshinayan refers to the six-month period when the sun appears to move southward, reaching its lowest point in the southern sky.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between Dakshinayan (southern movement) and Uttarayan (northern movement) of the apparent sun.

Question 14. The period in which the position of the rising sun keeps moving towards the north is called _______.
Answer: Uttarayan
In simple words: Uttarayan is the six-month period when the sun appears to move northward, reaching its highest point in the northern sky.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that this "movement" is apparent, caused by the Earth's tilt and revolution, not the sun's actual movement.

Question 15. In the northern hemisphere 23rd September is called _______ equinox.
Answer: Autumnal
In simple words: September 23rd marks the autumnal equinox in the northern hemisphere, signaling the start of autumn.

🎯 Exam Tip: Relate the date of the equinox to the specific season it signifies in the northern hemisphere.

Complete The Following Sentence:

Question 1. The movement of the sun towards the north or south in a year is called _______.
Answer: the apparent movement of the sun
In simple words: The apparent movement of the sun describes how the sun's position in the sky seems to shift north or south over the year due to Earth's tilt and orbit.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize that this movement is an illusion caused by Earth's motion, not the sun's actual change in position.

Question 2. Seasons occur only with reference to _______.
Answer: the northern and the southern hemisphere
In simple words: Seasons are primarily defined and experienced differently in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres due to the Earth's axial tilt.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the fundamental role of Earth's hemispheres in the occurrence and differentiation of seasons.

Question 3. The diurnal apparent movement of the sun is related to _______.
Answer: the rotation of the earth
In simple words: The daily (diurnal) apparent movement of the sun across the sky from east to west is a direct result of the Earth's rotation on its axis.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between diurnal movement (daily, due to rotation) and annual movement (yearly, due to revolution and tilt).

Question 4. The annual apparent movement of the sun is related to _______.
Answer: the revolution of the earth and the tilt of earth's axis
In simple words: The sun's annual apparent movement, which causes seasons, is caused by the Earth's yearly orbit around the sun combined with the tilt of its axis.

🎯 Exam Tip: This question combines two critical factors: revolution and axial tilt, which are essential for understanding seasons.

Question 5. In the first week of July, the earth is at _______.
Answer: the farthest point from the sun.
In simple words: In early July, the Earth reaches its aphelion, which is the point in its orbit where it is farthest from the sun.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that Earth's distance from the sun doesn't cause seasons, but aphelion (farthest) and perihelion (closest) are orbital facts.

Question 6. The circle of illumination1 divides _______.
Answer: all the parallels from the north pole to the south pole equally.
In simple words: The circle of illumination is an imaginary line that separates the illuminated day side of the Earth from the dark night side, dividing all latitudes equally during equinoxes.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that the circle of illumination is dynamic, but during equinoxes, it bisects all parallels, leading to equal day and night.

Question 7. In the northern hemisphere, spring prevails _______.
Answer: from 21st March to 21st June.
In simple words: Spring in the northern hemisphere typically runs from the vernal equinox around March 21st until the summer solstice around June 21st.

🎯 Exam Tip: Associate the start and end dates with the specific equinoxes and solstices that define the seasons.

Question 8. In the northern hemisphere, autumn prevails _______.
Answer: from 23rd September to 22nd December.
In simple words: Autumn in the northern hemisphere generally lasts from the autumnal equinox around September 23rd until the winter solstice around December 22nd.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the approximate start and end dates for each season is important for geographical understanding.

Question 9. Only on 21st June and 22nd December, the sun rays become _______.
Answer: perpendicular on the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricon respectively
In simple words: On June 21st, the sun's rays are directly overhead (perpendicular) at the Tropic of Cancer, and on December 22nd, they are perpendicular at the Tropic of Capricorn.

🎯 Exam Tip: These dates represent the solstices, when direct sunlight reaches its northernmost (Tropic of Cancer) or southernmost (Tropic of Capricorn) extent.

Question 10. Seasons have been decided on the basis of _______.
Answer: the duration of sunlight, equinoxes and solstices
In simple words: Seasons are determined by how long an area receives sunlight, along with the specific astronomical events of equinoxes (equal day/night) and solstices (longest/shortest day).

🎯 Exam Tip: This answer summarizes the key factors that combine to define the Earth's seasonal patterns.

Question 11. The living world on the earth is affected by _______.
Answer: the cycle of seasons.
In simple words: The recurring pattern of seasons significantly influences all life on Earth, affecting plant growth, animal behavior, and ecosystems.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider the broad ecological and biological impacts of seasonal changes, beyond just human experience.

Question 12. Continuous occurrence of rain in a specific period gives rise to _______.
Answer: an additional season besides summer and winter.
In simple words: Consistent rainfall during a specific time creates a distinct 'rainy season' in many regions, supplementing the standard summer and winter periods.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize that while most climate zones have summer/winter, many tropical and subtropical regions also experience a pronounced monsoon or rainy season.

Complete the statements using the correct options:

Question 1. In the course of one year, Arctic tern has to travel in search of food.
(a) around 50,000 km.
(b) around 70,000 km.
(c) around 90,000 km.
Answer: (b) around 70,000 km.
In simple words: The Arctic tern undertakes an incredibly long annual migration, traveling approximately 70,000 kilometers between its breeding grounds in the Arctic and wintering grounds in the Antarctic.

🎯 Exam Tip: This question tests knowledge of specific migratory patterns of animals, demonstrating adaptation to seasonal changes.

Question 2. Due to severe winter and lack of food, Siberian cranes from the cold northern regions visit India travelling around
(a) 8 to 10 thousand kilometers.
(b) 10 to 12 thousand kilometers.
(c) 12 to 14 thousand kilometers.
Answer: (a) 8 to 10 thousand kilometers.
In simple words: Siberian cranes migrate approximately 8,000 to 10,000 kilometers from their cold northern breeding grounds to warmer regions like India to escape harsh winters and find food.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific examples of animal migration illustrate the global impact of seasonal changes on biodiversity.

Question 3. The two Poles experience either sunrise or sunset on
(a) Solstice days.
(b) Equinox days.
(c) Dakshinayan.
Answer: (b) Equinox days.
In simple words: On equinox days (March 21st and September 23rd), the sun's rays hit the equator directly, causing the circle of illumination to pass through both poles, resulting in either sunrise or sunset at the poles.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the unique phenomenon at the poles during equinoxes, contrasting it with the long periods of continuous day or night during solstices.

Question 4. The diurnal apparent movement of the sun is related to
(a) the revolution of the earth.
(b) rotation of the earth.
(c) tilt of the earth's axis.
Answer: (b) rotation of the earth
In simple words: The daily apparent movement of the sun across the sky, from sunrise to sunset, is directly caused by the Earth spinning on its own axis.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between rotation (daily movement, day/night) and revolution (yearly movement, seasons) and their apparent effects on the sun's position.

Answer In One Sentence:

Question 1. What is the apparent movement of the sun?
Answer: The movement of the sun towards the north or south in a year is called the apparent movement of the sun.
In simple words: The apparent movement of the sun is the observed shift of the sun's position towards the north or south over the course of a year, caused by Earth's tilt and orbit.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize "apparent" to highlight that the sun itself isn't moving, but its perceived path changes from Earth's perspective.

Question 2. What is Equinox?
Answer: On 21st March and 23rd September, the north pole and the south pole are at the same distance from the earth due to which the daytime & night time are of equal duration every where on earth. This is called Equinox.
In simple words: An equinox is a time when the sun is directly over the equator, leading to nearly equal hours of daylight and darkness across the entire planet.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the two key dates (March 21st, September 23rd) and the core characteristic (equal day/night) of an equinox.

Question 3. How have seasons been decided?
Answer: Seasons have been decided on the basis of the duration of sunlight, equinoxes and solstices.
In simple words: Seasons are defined by changes in the amount of daily sunlight an area receives, marked by the astronomical events of equinoxes and solstices.

🎯 Exam Tip: This answer covers the fundamental astronomical and light-duration criteria used to categorize seasons.

Question 4. Name the four seasons of Europe and North America.
Answer: The four seasons in Europe and North America are summer, autumn, winter and spring.
In simple words: The main four seasons experienced in Europe and North America are summer, autumn, winter, and spring.

🎯 Exam Tip: This is a straightforward recall question about common seasonal names in temperate regions.

Question 5. Which living creatures are found in the Antarctic region?
Answer: Birds like penguins, fish like seal and animals like walruses are found in the Antarctic region.
In simple words: The Antarctic region is inhabited by animals such as penguins, seals, and walruses, which are adapted to its cold climate.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the unique adaptations of wildlife to extreme cold environments in the Antarctic, noting different species compared to the Arctic.

Question 6. Which animals are found in the polar region of the northern hemisphere?
Answer: In the polar region of the northern hemisphere animals like reindeer, polar bears, Arctic foxes, etc are found.
In simple words: Animals like reindeer, polar bears, and Arctic foxes are commonly found in the extremely cold polar regions of the Northern Hemisphere.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the difference in animal species adapted to the Arctic (Northern Hemisphere) versus the Antarctic (Southern Hemisphere).

Question 7. What are the factors that influence the seasons?
Answer: The changes in the atmosphere, vapour in the air, the wind and the precipitation influence the seasons.
In simple words: Seasons are influenced by atmospheric conditions like humidity (vapour in air), wind patterns, and the amount of rainfall or snowfall (precipitation).

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on meteorological elements (atmosphere, humidity, wind, precipitation) as key contributors to seasonal characteristics.

Question 8. What do you mean by Dakshinayan?
Answer: The period in which (from 21st June to 22nd December) the position of the rising sun keeps on moving towards the south is called as Dakshinayan.
In simple words: Dakshinayan is the six-month period, from June 21st to December 22nd, when the sun appears to move southward in the sky, leading to shorter days in the Northern Hemisphere.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the dates and the direction of the sun's apparent movement for Dakshinayan.

Question 9. What is Uttarayan?
Answer: The period in which (from 22nd December to 21st June) the position of the rising sun keeps on moving towards the north is called as Uttarayan.
In simple words: Uttarayan is the six-month period, from December 22nd to June 21st, when the sun appears to move northward in the sky, leading to longer days in the Northern Hemisphere.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand Uttarayan as the counterpart to Dakshinayan, with opposite dates and apparent sun movement.

Answer the following questions:

Question 1. What is called perihelion position of the earth?
Answer:
(i) As the earth moves in an ellipse, its distance from the sun does not remain the same.
(ii) It is at its minimum distance in the first week of January.
(iii) This is called the perihelion position of the earth.
In simple words: Perihelion is the point in Earth's elliptical orbit where it is closest to the sun, which typically occurs in the first week of January.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that perihelion (closest) happens in January, and aphelion (farthest) happens in July, which might seem counter-intuitive to seasons.

Question 2. What is called aphelion position of the earth.
Answer:
(i) In the first week of July, the earth is at the farthest point from the sun.
(ii) This is called the aphelion position.
In simple words: Aphelion is the point in Earth's elliptical orbit where it is farthest from the sun, typically occurring in the first week of July.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that the varying distance from the sun (perihelion/aphelion) has minimal impact on seasons compared to axial tilt.

Question 3. What is called circle of illumination?
Answer:
(i) The illuminated and dark portions of all the parallels including the equator is called circle of illumination.
(ii) It divides all the parallels from the north pole to the south pole equally.
In simple words: The circle of illumination is the imaginary line on Earth that separates the daylight side from the nighttime side.

🎯 Exam Tip: Visualize this line as constantly moving due to Earth's rotation, but its orientation changes with the seasons due to axial tilt.

Question 4. What are Solstice days?
Answer:
(i) Solstice days are the days when the earth's tilt towards the sun is at its maximum.
(ii) On 21st June the northern hemisphere is tilted towards the sun and the Tropic of Cancer starts receiving perpendicular rays of the sun.
(iii) On 22nd December the Southern hemisphere is tilted towards the sun & the Tropic of Capricorn starts receiving perpendicular rays of the sun.
(iv) These two days are called solstice days.
In simple words: Solstice days are when the Earth's tilt causes one hemisphere to be most directly exposed to the sun, resulting in the longest day of the year (summer solstice) or the shortest day (winter solstice).

🎯 Exam Tip: Associate the two solstices (June 21st and December 22nd) with the maximum tilt towards or away from the sun, and direct rays on the Tropics.

Question 5. Draw the diagram showing the Aphelion and perihelion position:
Answer:
ℹ️ चित्र व्याख्या (Diagram Explanation): यह चित्र पृथ्वी की सूर्य के चारों ओर अंडाकार कक्षा में अपहेलियन (सूर्य से अधिकतम दूरी) और पेरिहेलियन (सूर्य से न्यूनतम दूरी) स्थितियों को दर्शाता है। इसमें उत्तरी और दक्षिणी गोलार्ध में जुलाई और जनवरी के महीनों में ग्रीष्म और शीत ऋतुओं को भी दिखाया गया है, साथ ही सूर्य से पृथ्वी की दूरियाँ (152 मिलियन किमी और 147 मिलियन किमी) भी इंगित की गई हैं।
In simple words: This diagram illustrates Earth's elliptical orbit around the sun, showing its farthest point (aphelion) in July and closest point (perihelion) in January, along with the corresponding seasons in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding this diagram helps visualize that Earth's distance from the sun doesn't dictate seasons; rather, the axial tilt and revolution do.