How many hours of daylight and nightlight does the equator receive?

How many hours of daylight and nightlight does the equator receive?

• A. 10 hours each
• B. 12 hours each
• C. 14 hours each
• D. 24 hours each

Answer: (B)

The correct answer reflects the unique characteristic of the equator's day-night cycle. At the equator, the duration of daylight and nightlight is roughly equal throughout the year, typically averaging about 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of nightlight. This consistency occurs because the equator receives direct sunlight year-round due to the Earth's axial tilt and its rotation on its axis. Different latitudes experience varying lengths of day and night due to the tilt of the Earth, especially as you move towards the poles. Near the poles, the variation can be extreme, leading to very long days or nights during certain times of the year. However, at the equator, the effect of the seasons is minimal, resulting in the balance of approximately 12 hours for both daylight and nightlight throughout the entire year.

The correct answer reflects the unique characteristic of the equator's day-night cycle. At the equator, the duration of daylight and nightlight is roughly equal throughout the year, typically averaging about 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of nightlight. This consistency occurs because the equator receives direct sunlight year-round due to the Earth's axial tilt and its rotation on its axis.

Different latitudes experience varying lengths of day and night due to the tilt of the Earth, especially as you move towards the poles. Near the poles, the variation can be extreme, leading to very long days or nights during certain times of the year. However, at the equator, the effect of the seasons is minimal, resulting in the balance of approximately 12 hours for both daylight and nightlight throughout the entire year.