To determine the correct answer regarding the Earth's position relative to the Sun, we need to understand the Earth's axial tilt and its orbit around the Sun, which leads to the changing seasons. Correct Option: C. June 21 Explanation of Why June 21 is Correct:

1. Understanding Earth's Tilt and Orbit:
2. The Earth is tilted on its axis at an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees. This tilt is responsible for the different seasons as the Earth orbits the Sun.
3. As the Earth travels around the Sun, different parts of the Earth receive varying amounts of sunlight at different times of the year.
4. Summer Solstice:
5. June 21 is known as the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. On this day, the North Pole is tilted closest to the Sun.
6. This results in the longest day of the year for the Northern Hemisphere, as the Sun takes a longer path across the sky, leading to more daylight hours.
7. Position Relative to the Sun:
8. On June 21, the Sun is directly overhead at the Tropic of Cancer (23.5° N latitude). This is the point where the Sun's rays strike the Earth at a 90-degree angle at noon.
9. The Southern Hemisphere, conversely, experiences the Winter Solstice, receiving the least amount of sunlight.
10. Diagram Interpretation:
11. Although the diagram is not visible, if it shows the Earth tilted towards the Sun with the Northern Hemisphere receiving direct sunlight, it indicates the position of the Earth on June 21.

Why the Other Options are Incorrect:

• A. December 22:
• This date marks the Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, where the North Pole is tilted away from the Sun. The Sun is directly overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5° S latitude), resulting in the shortest day of the year for the Northern Hemisphere.
• B. March 21:
• This date is known as the Vernal Equinox. On this day, the Sun is directly over the Equator, and day and night are approximately equal in length. The Northern Hemisphere is just beginning to tilt towards the Sun, leading to the start of spring.
• D. September 22:
• This date is known as the Autumnal Equinox. Similar to March 21, the Sun is again directly over the Equator, resulting in equal day and night lengths. The Northern Hemisphere is tilting away from the Sun, leading to the onset of autumn.

Summary of Key Points:

• The Earth is tilted at 23.5 degrees, affecting sunlight distribution and seasons.
• June 21 is the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, with the longest day and direct sunlight at the Tropic of Cancer.
• December 22 is the Winter Solstice, March 21 is the Vernal Equinox, and September 22 is the Autumnal Equinox, each marking different positions of the Earth relative to the Sun.
• Understanding the axial tilt and the Earth's orbit is crucial for determining seasonal changes and the corresponding dates.

This thorough understanding of the Earth's position relative to the Sun will help you in answering similar questions in your geography studies.