What is the angle in which the axis of Earth is inclined to its orbital plane?
2023
What is the angle in which the axis of Earth is inclined to its orbital plane?
- A.
23.5°
- B.
27.5°
- C.
66.5°
- D.
72.5°
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Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
The Earth's axis is tilted at an angle of 66.5° (or 66½°) to its orbital plane. This axis is inclined at 23.5° (or 23½°) from the perpendicular (vertical), which is the main reason for seasonal changes on Earth.
Tilt with respect to the orbital plane: 66.5°
Tilt from the vertical (perpendicular): 23.5°
Importance: This tilt is responsible for variations in the length of day and night and for different seasons.