Seasonal

Seasonal refers to the changes that occur in the environment and organisms due to the annual cycle of the Earth's seasons. These changes can be observed in weather patterns, daylight hours, and biological phenomena. Seasonal changes are caused by the Earth's axial tilt and its elliptical orbit around the sun.

Causes of Seasonal Changes

The primary cause of seasonal changes is the tilt of the Earth's axis relative to its orbit around the sun. This tilt, combined with the Earth's elliptical orbit, results in varying amounts of sunlight reaching different parts of the Earth at different times of the year. This variation in sunlight causes the changes in weather and daylight hours that we associate with the seasons.

Effects of Seasonal Changes

Seasonal changes have a significant impact on the environment and all living organisms. They affect weather patterns, daylight hours, and the availability of food and water. These changes can influence the behavior, reproduction, and survival of many species.

Weather Patterns

Seasonal changes significantly affect weather patterns. In general, the weather tends to be warmer during the summer months when the Earth is tilted towards the sun, and cooler during the winter months when the Earth is tilted away from the sun. These changes in temperature can also affect precipitation patterns, with some areas experiencing wetter or drier seasons.

Daylight Hours

The amount of daylight we receive each day also changes with the seasons. During the summer months, the days are longer because the Earth is tilted towards the sun. Conversely, during the winter months, the days are shorter because the Earth is tilted away from the sun.

Biological Phenomena

Many biological phenomena are influenced by seasonal changes. For example, many animals hibernate during the winter months when food is scarce. Similarly, many plants enter a dormant state during the winter months, only to bloom again in the spring.

Seasonal Disorders

Some people may experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons. SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. Most people with SAD, experience symptoms starting in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping their energy and making them feel moody.

See Also

• Earth's axial tilt
• Weather patterns
• Hibernation
• Seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal Resources
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