Why is it hotter in the summer and colder in the winter?

The Earth is tilted, so your hemisphere gets more direct sunlight in summer.

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  1. The Earth gets closer to the sun
  2. The sun burns hotter in summer
  3. The Earth is tilted on its axis ✔

Why: Earth's orbit is mostly round. We have seasons because the planet leans to one side. When your half tilts toward the sun, you get summer.

Huh, didn't know that: During the Northern Hemisphere's winter, the Earth is actually at its closest point to the sun.

The dad joke
What happens when winter arrives? Things go downhill fast.
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References

Answer: The Earth is tilted on its axis. Earth's orbit is mostly round. We have seasons because the planet leans to one side. When your half tilts toward the sun, you get summer.

  1. NASA Space Place: What Causes the Seasons? spaceplace.nasa.gov/seasons/en
    Earth's tilted axis causes the seasons.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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