Context:
March 19 marked the spring or vernal equinox, the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
Relevance:
GS I: Geography
About Spring Equinox:
- Definition: The spring equinox refers to one of the two moments in a year when the Sun is exactly above the equator, resulting in nearly equal lengths of day and night worldwide.
- Timing: These equinoxes typically occur around March 19, 20, or 21 and September 22 or 23 each year.
- Meaning of Equinox: The term “equinox” originates from Latin, meaning “equal night,” highlighting the balance between day and night during these periods.
Northern Hemisphere:
- The March equinox signifies the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere as the region starts to tilt toward the Sun, leading to longer and sunnier days.
- It is often referred to as the vernal equinox, with “vernal” meaning fresh or new, signifying the renewal of life associated with springtime.
Southern Hemisphere:
- Conversely, in the Southern Hemisphere, the March equinox marks the start of fall (autumn) as the region begins to tilt away from the Sun.
- It is termed the autumnal equinox, indicating the transition into the cooler season.
Seasonal Changes:
- As the Northern Hemisphere experiences the vernal equinox and longer days, the Southern Hemisphere undergoes the autumnal equinox and shorter days.
- This transition results in later sunrises, earlier sunsets, cooler winds, and the shedding of dry leaves in the Southern Hemisphere, while the opposite occurs in the Northern Hemisphere.
-Source: The Hindu
