Arctic circle

Arctic Circle

The Arctic Circle is one of the five major circles of latitude that mark maps of the Earth. It is the parallel of latitude that runs 66°33′47.5″ north of the Equator. The region north of this circle is known as the Arctic, and the zone just to the south is called the Northern Temperate Zone.

Geography

The Arctic Circle is the southernmost latitude in the Northern Hemisphere at which the sun can remain continuously above or below the horizon for 24 hours (an occurrence known as a polar day or polar night). North of the Arctic Circle, the sun is above the horizon for 24 continuous hours at least once per year (at the summer solstice) and below the horizon for 24 continuous hours at least once per year (at the winter solstice).

Climate

The climate inside the Arctic Circle is generally cold, but the coastal areas of Norway have a milder climate as a result of the Gulf Stream, which makes the ports of northern Norway and northwest Russia ice-free all year long. In the interior, summers can be quite warm, while winters are extremely cold.

Flora and Fauna

The Arctic Circle is home to a number of species adapted to its cold and harsh environment. This includes animals like the polar bear, arctic fox, reindeer, and certain species of seals and whales. The flora of the region is characterized by small, hardy plants such as mosses, lichens, and arctic willow.

Human Settlement

Despite the harsh conditions, the Arctic Circle is inhabited by various indigenous peoples, including the Inuit, Saami, and Nenets. These communities have traditionally relied on hunting, fishing, and reindeer herding for survival.

See Also

• Antarctic Circle
• Tropic of Cancer
• Tropic of Capricorn
• Equator