SOLSTITIAL POINTS Meaning and
Definition
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Solstitial points refer to the two points in the Earth's orbit around the Sun where the tilt of the Earth's axis is either maximally inclined towards or away from the Sun. Broadly speaking, the solstitial points correspond to the two moments in the year that mark the summer and winter solstices.
Specifically, the two solstitial points are called the summer solstice and the winter solstice. The summer solstice occurs around June 21st in the northern hemisphere and December 21st in the southern hemisphere. This is when the Sun reaches its highest point in the sky, resulting in the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere and the shortest day in the southern hemisphere. Conversely, the winter solstice occurs around December 21st in the northern hemisphere and June 21st in the southern hemisphere. During this time, the Sun reaches its lowest point in the sky, resulting in the shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere and the longest day in the southern hemisphere.
The solstitial points play a significant role in the change of seasons and have cultural and astronomical importance in various societies. They mark important dates for celebrations, rituals, and astronomical observations. By understanding the solstitial points, scientists and astronomers are able to accurately predict the lengths of days and nights during different times of the year as well as study the effects of Earth's axial tilt on climate and seasons.
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The furthest north and south points of the ecliptic at which the sun arrives- the north being called Cancer, the south Capricorn.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SOLSTITIAL POINTS
Etymology of SOLSTITIAL POINTS
The term "solstitial points" is derived from a combination of two words: "solstice" and "points".
"Solstice" originates from the Latin words "sol" meaning "sun" and "stitium" meaning "standing still". It refers to the two points in the year when the sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky. These points occur during the summer and winter solstices.
The word "points" simply refers to specific positions or locations on a celestial sphere.
Therefore, "solstitial points" refers to the specific positions or points on the celestial sphere where the sun reaches its highest or lowest points during the solstices.
