Understanding the Tropic of Cancer: Latitude 23.5 North

Have you ever wondered what the latitude line at 23.5 degrees north of the equator is called? This geographical feature is known as the Tropic of Cancer. In this article, we will explore the significance of the Tropic of Cancer, its relation to other latitude lines, and its importance in geographical and astronomical terms.

What is Tropic of Cancer?

The Tropic of Cancer is a line of latitude that is 23.5 degrees north of the equator. It is one of the five major circles of latitude that mark the Earth. This latitude line is significant because it marks the northernmost point at which the Sun can appear directly overhead at noon on the summer solstice. This phenomenon, known as the Sun's zenith, occurs on June 21st or 22nd and is referred to as the Tropic of Cancer.

What Happens at the Tropic of Cancer?

At the Tropic of Cancer, the Sun reaches its highest point in the sky at noon, which is directly overhead. This means that the Tropic of Cancer experiences a special phenomenon where the Sun's rays are perpendicular to the Earth's surface at this latitude. This results in the longest day of the year, when the day is approximately 14 hours long in some tropical areas.

Comparison with Tropic of Capricorn

Complementing the Tropic of Cancer is the Tropic of Capricorn, which is located at 23.5 degrees south of the equator. Together, these two latitude lines divide the Earth into the Tropics and the Temperate Zones. The area between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, known as the Tropics, experiences higher annual temperatures and is characterized by intense sunshine and relatively high humidity.

Map and Geographic Importance

For a clear visual representation, imagine a map of the Earth where the Tropic of Cancer is marked. The Tropic of Cancer is an important reference line in geographical, historical, and cultural contexts. It has been significant in the development of early calendars and the planting seasons for crops in regions that fall within this latitude band.

Conclusion

In summary, the latitude line at 23.5 degrees north of the equator is known as the Tropic of Cancer. This line marks the northernmost point at which the Sun is directly overhead during the summer solstice, making it a significant geographical and astronomical marker. Understanding the Tropic of Cancer helps us appreciate the complex relationship between the Earth's rotation and its orbit around the Sun.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information on the Tropic of Cancer, you might want to explore further with articles on historical astronomy, geographical maps, and cultural traditions related to this line of latitude.