Summer
Explanation
The occurrence of seasons is primarily determined by the revolution of the Earth around the Sun and the permanent tilt of the Earth's axis at an angle of 66.5° to its orbital plane. This tilt causes variations in the amount of insolation received by different hemispheres throughout the year.
Detailed Analysis:
- Winter Solstice (Northern Hemisphere): This event typically occurs around December 22. During this time, the South Pole is inclined towards the Sun, while the North Pole is tilted away.
- Position of the Sun: The Sun's vertical rays fall directly over the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5° S).
- Seasonal Impact: Because the Southern Hemisphere receives direct sunlight and has longer daylight hours, it experiences Summer. Conversely, the Northern Hemisphere receives oblique rays and shorter daylight hours, resulting in Winter.
Key Takeaway:
The seasons in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres are always opposite. The "Winter Solstice" for the Northern Hemisphere corresponds to the summer season in the Southern Hemisphere.