What is the main idea of the passage?

Earth’s axial tilt changes the Sun’s daily path oppositely in each hemisphere, creating seasonal day length whose temperature effects lag. (The passage connects tilt, solar path, hemispheres, latitude, solstice, and delayed heating.)

Why can hottest temperatures occur after the longest day?

Land and water continue accumulating heat after daylight has begun to shorten. (The conclusion contrasts immediate geometric day length with slower energy storage and release.)

What does “hemisphere” mean?

one half of Earth, such as north or south (Northern and Southern Hemispheres are opposing halves that experience reversed seasonal patterns.)

What is the longest day called?

the summer solstice (The final paragraph directly names the longest day as the summer solstice.)

Why Summer Days Grow Long: Level 3 Reading Comprehension Questions

Earth's axis is tilted relative to its path around the Sun. As Earth travels through the year, each hemisphere alternately leans toward or away from the Sun. This tilt, not a large seasonal change in Earth-Sun distance, creates the familiar pattern of seasons.

When the Northern Hemisphere leans toward the Sun, the Sun follows a longer path above its horizon each day. It rises earlier, sets later, and reaches a higher noon position. More hours of sunlight and more direct rays make this northern summer. At the same time, the Southern Hemisphere receives shorter days and less direct sunlight, producing winter there.

About six months later, the pattern reverses. Near the equator, day length changes less through the year. Toward the poles, changes become extreme; within polar circles, the Sun may remain above or below the horizon for whole days around part of the year.

The longest day is called the summer solstice, but it is not usually the hottest day. Land and oceans take time to warm, so average temperatures often peak later. Day length follows geometry immediately, while seasonal heat reflects energy accumulated and released over time.

Comprehension questions