Previous Year Question
On 21st June every year, which of the following latitudes experience(s) sunlight for more than 12 hours?
Equator
Tropic of Cancer
Tropic of Capricorn
Arctic Circle
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Correct Answer: D
Detailed Solution
Around 21 June, the summer solstice occurs in the Northern Hemisphere. The Northern Hemisphere is tilted to its maximum extent towards the Sun, and the Sun’s direct rays fall approximately over the Tropic of Cancer at 23½° north latitude. Consequently, the duration of daylight is more than 12 hours in the Northern Hemisphere and less than 12 hours in the Southern Hemisphere.
1. Equator—incorrect: At the Equator, day and night remain approximately 12 hours each throughout the year. Therefore, the Equator does not experience sunlight for more than 12 hours.
2. Tropic of Cancer—correct: On 21 June, the Sun is nearly overhead at noon at the Tropic of Cancer. It is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, so daylight lasts for more than 12 hours.
3. Tropic of Capricorn—incorrect: The Tropic of Capricorn lies in the Southern Hemisphere. Around 21 June, it experiences the winter-solstice condition and has less than 12 hours of daylight.
4. Arctic Circle—correct: The Arctic Circle is situated at approximately 66½° north latitude. On 21 June, the Sun does not set there, producing nearly 24 hours of daylight. This phenomenon is known as the midnight Sun.